05/20/2026, 16:26

More slight wording changes to better reflect all uniform changes being opposed and not just the changes for the year 13. Basically expanding on the current issues as requested by the community.


New title: Stop the proposed Hillcrest High School uniform introducing year 13 uniforms and a senior blazerchanges

New petition description:

Petition to the School Board Regarding Year 13 Uniform Policy Changes

We, the undersigned parents, caregivers, and students, formally express our strong opposition to the recent decision to introduce a new school uniform. Including the recent decision requiring Year 13 students to wear full school uniformuniform, andamong themany newlyother introduced blazerchanges.

This decision is deeply concerning for several reasons:

1. Significant Financial Burden The addition of a blazer at a cost of approximately $220 places an unnecessary and inequitable financial strain on families. Many are already managing the high cost of existing uniform items, and this further expense is unjustified.

AfditiinalyAdditionally the proposed uniform changes will have significant cost implications for parents at a time when many are struggling with a cost of living crisis.

The uniform change will mean that:

New parents will not be able to buy second-hand uniforms for a period.

Existing parents with multiple children will not be able to hand down uniforms, saving money.

The cost implications for a parent with multiple children at the school, and are now unable to use hand-downs is $660.

This consists of the following:1 x blazer $2203 x new senior shirts $1502 x new skirts $1403 x new junior shirts for year 12 $150

2. Disregard for Community Feedback We understand that feedback from students and families regarding this proposal was overwhelmingly negative. Proceeding with the policy despite this feedback undermines trust and raises serious concerns about whether the school community is being meaningfully heard.

3. Lack of Practicality and Purpose Year 13 students are senior members of the school community. Imposing uniform requirements at this stage does not clearly support learning outcomes, student wellbeing, or school culture in a meaningful or evidence-based way.

The proposed changes to the entire uniform appear to give no benefit, with changes including as swapping the shirts from one colour to another. Given this, the proposed change appears to be unwarranted.

4. Uniform Quality and Student Wellbeing The current uniform has been widely described as uncomfortable, poorly made, and not fit for purpose. In particular, the materials used can be scratchy and irritating, which poses real challenges for students with sensory sensitivities and those who are neurodivergent. A uniform policy should be inclusive and supportive of all students, not create additional barriers to comfort, focus, and wellbeing.

Before introducing any further uniform items, or uniform rules we strongly believe the school should review and improve the quality, comfort, and accessibility of the existing uniform.

Our Request We respectfully call on the School Board to:

1. Reconsider and reverse the decision to mandate full uniform for Year 13 students

2. Reconsider and reverse the decision to bring out the blazer.

3. Engage in genuine consultation with students and families, with transparent consideration of feedback

4. Review the current uniform to ensure it is comfortable, inclusive, and fit for purpose for all students

5.Consider more flexible uniform options for senior students that reflect their status and diverse needs

6.We urge the Board to work collaboratively with the school community to reach a solution that is fair, practical, and respectful of student wellbeing.