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Coward punch: Palaszczuk Government wants anti-violence message in Queensland schools

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Coward punch: Palaszczuk Government wants anti-violence message in Queensland schools

The Courier Mail
Sarah Vogler
January 23,2016

Cole Miller died after a one-punch attack in Fortitude Valley earlier this month.

THE One Punch anti-violence message could soon be taught in Queensland schools.

The Palaszczuk Government is considering the best way to ensure every school ­student in the state hears the message — either by incorporating it officially into the curriculum or by funding speakers to tour classrooms.

The move follows a recent spate of one-punch attacks in Queensland — including the death of Brisbane teenager Cole Miller early this month.

Premier Annastacia Palas­zczuk said she was serious about the move as spreading the message was vital.

“Whether it’s parents sitting down with their children, whether it’s people going in and communicating in schools — we have all got a part to play,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

The Premier’s revelation came as a closed session of the Brisbane Magistrates Court adjourned a bail application for one of the men accused of the fatal one-punch attack on Mr Miller until January 27.

Prosecutors are understood to have asked for extra time to strengthen the objection to bail relating to Daniel Maxwell, 21.

Magistrate Wendy Cull granted the request in a session behind closed doors.

Maxwell, who was remanded in custody, is accused of indirectly causing Mr Miller’s death by asking co-accused Armstrong Renata to take part in the attack, saying to three mates “do you want to see something funny?” before punching Mr Miller.

Shortly afterwards, it is alleged Renata joined in and punched the teenager in the head with such force he was immediately unconscious.

The Government meanwhile will next month attempt to pass its new “last drinks” alcohol-fuelled violence measures, including a ban on the sale of alcohol in pubs and clubs after 2am, or after 3am in entertainment precincts if combined with a 1am lockout.

A committee is to report on the laws by February 8.