Discussions underway to protect teachers from violence

By Jennifer Leete

Federation is continuing a detailed analysis of results of its August Violence Audit.

Discussions have commenced with the Department of Education and Training (DET) in an attempt to achieve an industrial agreement which would ensure that DET meets its occupational health and safety (OH&S) obligations in relation to the risk of violence in the workplace. These discussions are only at a very early stage. DET has not even said whether it would be prepared to have an industrial agreement, let alone stating what they are prepared to commit to.

One matter raised early in discussions is the issue of enrolment of students with a history of violence. Federation has demanded that DET send a memorandum to all principals and district superintendents directing them to ensure full disclosure of relevant information before any student with a history of violence is enrolled in a school. Such an enrolment should not proceed until and unless all relevant OH&S, as well as educational, issues are resolved and the OH&S risk appropriately controlled. In the October 27 edition of Education, Bob Lipscombe reported on the prosecution of the DET for an OH&S breach at Kurrambee SSP. A significant part of the fine imposed by the court was a penalty for failing to provide all relevant and available information to employees.

Discussions with the DET will not resolve these issues quickly. Many of the audit reports reveal apparent breaches of the legislation which have already occurred. Federation is having discussions with appropriate legal personnel to determine which of these can be followed up by way of OH&S prosecutions or claims to the Chief Industrial Magistrate.

Federation Organisers are also being provided with details of audit reports from the schools they cover. Federation Council has endorsed the taking of industrial action, in consultation with the Organiser, in worksites where DET is not meeting its OH&S obligations in relation to violence.

Discussions with the DET will also focus on the need to properly assess, manage and control the risk of violence against teachers from intruders on DET property, and conduct an investigation into the incidence of violence against teachers and students who are or are perceived to be gay or lesbian.

Federation will also be asking for a full review of the DET's suspension and expulsion policy.

Jennifer Leete is the Deputy President.

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November 2003 contents