NSW Schools Gain Power to Ban Troublesome Parents

0:00It's March 22. From your city to your ears, this is Sydney News Today. Powered by AI, I'm Cory with the story. New South Wales is proposing laws that let school principals band parents from school grounds for unreasonable or harmful behavior. These school community safety orders would apply to public, Catholic, and independent schools across the state. They target adults who excessively harass staff through emails, calls, texts, or threats, sweeping them at least 25 meters away from campuses. Camps, sports venues, and excursions. The orders would also prohibit any contact with staff via phone, email, social media, or school apps. Breaking one could lead to a local court application for a protection order with fines up to $5,500 for violations. This update fills gaps in old rules and only covered school gates and didn't address online or phone abuse. Schools report this kind of harassment has become routine, with some facing verbal attacks during drop-offs, flooded inboxes, or parents invading.

1:04Their space. Many say a small group of entitled parents ignores boundaries, wearing down staff and pushing some to quit. School leaders from various sectors welcome the change as a way to set clear limits. Surveys show the problem is growing nationwide, with 50% of principals experiencing physical violence last year, mostly from parents. 81.6% rise since 2011. More than 35% face cyberbullying, nearly all from families. Experts note that while most parents collaborate well, other methods to engage them have failed. These measures align new South Wales with states like Victoria and aim to protect teachers so they can focus on students without fear. Deputy Premier Pru Car says curbing abuse keeps quality education on track for every child.