From The Point: Education Support Staff must be aware of Reportable Conduct Scheme

The Reportable Conduct Scheme does not discriminate – Education Support Staff are also in the spotlight.

The Victorian Reportable Conduct Scheme (RCS) has been with us since the middle of 2017, with a similar scheme coming into effect this year in Tasmania. In that time the union has assisted many Education Support Staff who have had allegations made against them.

However, we have found that the workings of the scheme and the ramifications of an allegation are often poorly communicated to support staff. Often, schools hold a staff meeting around Mandatory Reporting and all staff complete the legislated modules. But the RCS does not fit within that compliance framework and Reportable Conduct is not mandated for discussion. The dissemination of information concerning the RCS is patchy at best.

When we ask ES members if they’ve been briefed about Reportable Conduct, they invariably refer to Mandatory Reporting – a completely different beast!

An allegation made under the RCS can lead to a lengthy time under investigation, a possible stand-down and an inability to work in schools if a finding affects your eligibility to hold a Working With Children Check.    

We support all our members through this process, but foreknowledge of this scheme is key – so please take the time to read the main article about it in this edition.

We encourage you to speak to your Rep or Organiser about arranging a briefing about the RCS for all staff, support staff included.

And speak to your colleagues and encourage them to join the union – we welcome all support staff at IEU sessions, but we are unable to support any non-members who find themselves a target of an allegation.

Similarly, if a worker joins the union once an allegation is made, it’s too late. We will at best be able to provide limited phone advice, and we have heard stories about the legal costs borne by non-members defending themselves against an allegation. As a full member you will have our expert resources marshalled to assist you, at no cost!

Be aware. Be protected.

For further information, contact your Organiser or the IEU office on (03) 9254 1860 or info@ieuvictas.org.au.