Victorian principals given the power to expel students for behaviour outside school
The Victorian government has revealed changes that allow students to be suspended or expelled if their behaviour outside of school or online puts fellow students or staff at serious risk.
Currently, those powers are restricted to responding to behaviour on school grounds.
The government said the change brings Victoria in line with New South Wales and South Australia, and will take effect from the first day of term 3, 2025.
Education Minister Ben Carroll said the move was in response to an increase in assaults and online bullying, including the use of AI deepfake images.
"In Victoria, community safety comes first. These strengthened powers send a clear message that harmful behaviour outside of school or online has consequences," Mr Carroll said.
"The safety of students, teachers and school staff is our top priority — we're investing in programs that foster more respectful schools and acting to protect school communities.
Mr Carroll said it would be up to principals to decide how and when to use the new powers.
"This is a measure we're putting in as a last resort," he said.
"I've met with families and principals where incidents have occurred online, have been incredibly harmful and because it happened outside the school gate, the principal hasn't had the appropriate authority."
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