On behalf of the Department of Education, I unreservedly apologise to all students who experienced antisemitic bullying and harassment at Brighton Secondary College between 2015 and 2020.
I am sorry that the department and the school failed to protect you from this inexcusable conduct.
Antisemitism – in all its forms – is unacceptable and should never be tolerated or excused.
Schools in particular should be safe places. Every student should be able to arrive at school and feel safe and secure. It is cause for great remorse that we failed to provide you with the safe learning environment to which you are entitled.
I also acknowledge that what happened at Brighton Secondary College had repercussions for the broader Jewish community, adding as it did to other instances of antisemitism experienced by the community.
The department is committed to continuing to work with Jewish community groups to eliminate the scourge of antisemitism to the fullest extent possible.
I commit to doing all I can, through the position I hold, to ensure the events at Brighton Secondary College are never repeated. I also commit to making sure that Jewish students in Victorian government schools are able to fully flourish and celebrate their rich histories and culture.
Tony Bates
Secretary
Department of Education
Updated