Tim Wilson (Goldstein, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today we remember the all-too-short life of Brisbane teenager Tyrone Unsworth. As members may be aware, last week it was reported in The Courier-Mail that Tyrone's mother, Amanda, said of his recent suicide that it was a result of a lot of people starting to pick on him because of his sexual orientation. Every day, around the country, children in Australia are bullied. I cannot speak with authority on the different bases of the bullying, but we are aware that many children who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex do face serious issues of bullying from others. Schools, of course, should be a sanctuaries and places of empathy and support for everybody, regardless of who they are. But what often is not appreciated is that many young LGBTI youth also experienced bullying from within—from fear that they should not be themselves because they will not achieve acceptance from their family and may experience social isolation. That is why suicide rates are so high. Young people cannot see their future, because of negativity that comes from within and from without. I hope all members will agree that there is no place for bullying and harassment of people in schools, workplaces and the community. For all young LGBTI children who are experiencing bullying and harassment, we should work to stop it and encourage resilience, because your life will be incredible and filled with incredible experiences and people who love you and care about you. You will realise your ambitions and dreams, because every day of your life you will— (Time expired)