4 Critical Actions to identify and respond to child abuse
How to identify and respond to child abuse using the 4 Critical Actions.
Schools
The 4 Critical Actions to identify and respond to child abuse are:
⬣ Identify | ▲ Report | ● Support | ■ Refer |
The response you follow depends on the source of abuse.
Also see
Determine the source of abuse
If you notice or are told something concerning about a child, you must act.
To start, choose the most likely source of abuse. You can come back to this page at any time.
Source: adult engaged by a government school
Source: adult engaged by a Catholic school
Source: adult engaged by an independent school
Source: student-to-student
for all schools
Source: in the family
for all schools
Source: in the community
for all schools
Historical child abuse
Support for former students who experienced child sexual abuse (including sexual assault and grooming) by an adult working in a government school.
Support
These resources help you recognise signs of abuse and understand your responsibilities.
Resources for schools
Practical resources to help schools when identifying and responding to child abuse, including posters, reference sheets, templates and guidance.
Training
Access training options, including online webinars and eLearning, related to child safety, information sharing and the MARAM reforms.
Updated 10 April 2026
At all times
Throughout the 4 Critical Actions, you must:
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