Education Minister Martin Dixon, called for the amendment in the Ministerial Direction, MD141- Special Religious Instruction in Public Schools, which had prohibited prayer groups, bible studies, information sessions and workshops related to Christianity.
Under the policy which came into effect on July 14, students were also restricted from distributing religious materials or advertising church events to friends.
Mr Dixon announced the government's intention to amend the policy via ABC Radio on July 31. He stated that his department "over-reached" in the drawing of the policy that addressed lunchtime activities of students.
The move has been commended by the Australian Christian Lobby, who thanked the MP on his commitment to freedom of religion and for acting to restore such freedoms in Victorian government schools.
As of August 19, Clause 9 had been amended to read:
"For the avoidance of doubt, nothing in clause 9(1) prevents students from distributing religious materials, displaying religious materials on their person or personal belongings or bringing religious materials to a Victorian government school."
While an updated Special Religious Instruction policy included a new "Freedom of religion" statement reading:
"Students and teachers have the rights to freedom of religion and belief, freedom of expression and freedom of association under the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006.
Students can organise and participate in voluntary religious activities outside of the school program because such activities are not part of the curriculum provided by the State in government schools. Such activities cannot be promoted by the school."
