Department of Education   Policies

The Department of Education (DOE) policies concerning every aspect of the management of state colleges are contained within the Schools of the Future Reference Guide. A copy can be observed at the offices of the Principal or Assistant Principal and photocopies can be made of the relevant pages. This material and a wealth of other educational information can be obtained from the Education Department website: www.education.vic.gov.au. All staff should bookmark this site on their laptops. 

4.1 Mandatory Reporting

As of 18th July 1994, teachers and Principals are mandated to report physical injury that results from abuse or neglect, and sexual abuse, to the Department of Human Services (DHS).  This legal requirement to report child physical and sexual abuse arises from the Victorian Government’s amendment to the Children and Young Persons Act 1989 in May 1993. 

When teachers form a belief that a child may be at risk of harm due to sexual abuse or physical injury that results from abuse or neglect, they have a legal responsibility to notify DHS.  Failure to act may contribute to the problem. It is not the responsibility of teachers or other DOE personnel to determine whether child abuse and neglect exists.  That responsibility rests entirely with DHS as the agency authorized to investigate. 

Please refer to the current Macleod College Mandatory Reporting Policy on Google Drive.

It is highly recommended that staff who have concerns of child abuse discuss the issue with: 

• Kasi Bird - Wellbeing Leader
• Claudia Nicolin - Wellbeing Councillor
• Student Manager  
• Sub School Leader
• Primary Leader, Karen Butterworth Years Prep - 6          
• Assistant Principal, Michelle Wallis Years 7 – 12

who will provide both personal support and procedural advice for the staff member.