The Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby (GLRL) has challenged comments made by the NSW Premier that daycare centres ‘should not be turned into battlefields for gender politics’, stating that the lessons being taught at Tillman Park were based on fundamental concepts such as accepting diversity and valuing all families within our society.

Children at the childcare centre in Tempe are taught about the diversity of families within our society through the Learn to Include book series, which features stories such as ‘Going to Fair Day’, ‘The Rainbow Cubby House’, and ‘Koala’s on Parade’. The books were produced through funding from the NSW Attorney-General’s Department and the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service of NSW.

According to David Scamell, co-convenor, “children are not being taught about sex education, but rather that some kids had two mums, some have two dads, and that this is ok”.

“Given where the childcare centre is, it is high likely that a number of children would come from same-sex families. If these lessons are not taught, then those children will continue to feel as though their family is not valued or accepted”.

He added, “Those who have made public comment against the lessons being taught in Tempe should read the books in question, before reaching a conclusion about whether they are appropriate”.