The Australian Greens have urged state and territory governments to think twice before signing up to reinstate the schools chaplaincy program, says Australian Greens spokesperson for schools Senator Penny Wright.
Senator Wright confirmed the Australian Greens opposed plans to put religious chaplains in Australian schools.
"The Australian Greens have consistently said that the time for amateurs is over and funding must be redirected to putting professional mental health workers in schools," Senator Wright said.
"When teenagers are more likely to die from suicide than car accidents, it's time to make it as easy as possible for every young person to get professional mental health support."
Senator Wright said the Abbott Government's decision not to allow secular welfare workers showed a clear ideological agenda.
"The separation of church and state should not be eroded - state and territory governments should strongly consider this fundamental principle before signing up," Senator Wright said.
"We must maintain a secular and inclusive public school system."