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Understanding teacher discipline records

Learn about teacher discipline records, their history, and where they are held.

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About teacher discipline records

A teacher discipline record is made when a teacher is accused of doing something wrong that needs investigation. These records can include:

Why these records are important

Discipline records show what steps were taken after the department received an allegation of wrongdoing. They show that the department looked into the issue and, if necessary, took action when someone was found to have engaged in misconduct.

Where these records are kept

Discipline records are kept by the Department of Education. Some older records from the 1860s are at the Public Record Office Victoria (PROV). These records are available to the public if they are over 100 years old.

Accessing teacher discipline records

If you want to see a record, please visit our access teacher discipline records page for guidance.

The department has kept discipline records since the 1860s, but some files may no longer exist. The law requires the keeping of public records was only introduced with Victoria’s 1973 Public Records Act.

A brief history of teacher discipline records

The department’s way of handling teacher discipline records has changed over time. There are three periods:

1. 1873–1946

The Public Service Board managed teachers, but the department investigated complaints. The department conducted the initial investigation and shared its findings with the Public Service Board. Then, the Board made the final decisions.

2. 1946–1982

Responsibility moved to the Teachers Tribunal. This body was independent and investigated disciplinary issues.

3. 1982–present

The Department of Education resumed complete responsibility for managing and disciplining teachers.

Since the 1990s, people have expected more from the department. People want it to respond quickly and fairly to teacher misconduct. This has led to:

These changes help the department protect students and respond better to abuse. They also have stricter rules about keeping records.

Access teacher discipline records

Find out what records you can see and how to request access to restricted records.

Education & training

Updated 27 March 2026

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