Ken O'Dowd (Flynn, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In this year's budget, we secured funding for the School Chaplaincy Program. It has been locked in and supported by all in this House. It is vital funding for vital, effective programs. However, they still need more funding to fill that short gap. I attended a fundraising event at Gin Gin State School last Saturday to ensure that the work of the chaplains continues within our school groups, student services and support programs. Chaplaincies in Queensland schools are very important. They build positive relationships with students, work closely with other support staff and services to nurture and care for students, support at-risk students through behaviour management programs, support staff and families from the wider school community and provide spiritual support and direction to the school community. Through positive and supportive relationships, they help our young people with everyday life problems: substance abuse, relationship issues, family breakdowns, depression and low self-esteem. I wish all school chaplains throughout my electorate of Flynn all the best for the future.