My child is having trouble at school — what can I do?

Every Aboriginal child in Victoria has the right to an education that respects their culture and supports their learning. If your child is having trouble at school — whether it’s behaviour issues, suspension, or problems with the school not respecting their needs — there are things you can do.

Step 1: Talk to the teacher first

Start with the teacher. Make a time to meet with them and ask:

• What’s happening from their perspective?
• What support has been put in place for my child?
• What does my child say about what’s happening?

Sometimes problems can be solved with better communication. Keep notes of every conversation — write down the date, who you spoke to, and what was said.

Step 2: Talk to the principal

If talking to the teacher doesn’t resolve it, go to the principal. You can request a meeting and bring a support person — a family member, a friend, anyone you trust. Ask the school to put their concerns in writing.

At this stage, ask:

• What specific behaviour is the school concerned about?
• Has an Aboriginal education support plan been put in place for my child?
• What cultural support is the school providing?
• Can we work together on a plan that keeps my child in school?

Step 3: If your child is suspended

If your child has been suspended, the school must:

• Give you written notice of the suspension
• Tell you the reasons for the suspension
• Give you information about your right to appeal

Get the suspension in writing. If they haven’t given you a written letter, ask for one.

Suspension should only be for serious behaviour — it should not be used for minor issues. If you think the suspension is disproportionate, you can:

• Appeal to the Regional Director of the Department of Education
• Contact VACCA (Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency) for advocacy support for Aboriginal students: (03) 9280 7800

Step 4: Your child has the right to an Aboriginal Education Officer or equivalent support

Every government school should have access to an Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO) or an Aboriginal Education Leader. Ask the school who their AEO is and ask them to be involved in meetings about your child. If your school doesn’t have one, request cultural support through the regional Department of Education office.

Step 5: Your child has the right to an interpreter

If English is not your first language, or if you just find meetings easier when you have support, you have the right to an interpreter at school meetings. Ask the school to arrange this. It’s free.

Step 6: Get advocacy support — VACCA

VACCA (Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency) can advocate for Aboriginal children in school disputes, including:

• Suspensions and exclusions
• Cases where children are not being appropriately supported
• Child protection involvement with school issues

Call VACCA on (03) 9280 7800 or ask at your local Aboriginal organisation for a referral.

Step 7: Department of Education Aboriginal Education Team

The Victorian Department of Education has an Aboriginal Education Team in each region. If you can’t resolve an issue with the school, contact the regional office for the Mallee area — they can escalate concerns.

The Department must ensure schools are meeting their obligations to Aboriginal students under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 and the Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan.

Step 8: ABSTUDY — if your child is staying at school

If your Aboriginal child is studying past Year 10, they may be eligible for ABSTUDY through Centrelink. This helps with the cost of schooling. Contact your school Aboriginal education officer or call Centrelink on 132 316 to ask about ABSTUDY.

Key contacts

• (03) 9280 7800 — VACCA (advocacy for Aboriginal children)
• 132 316 — Centrelink Indigenous line (ABSTUDY enquiries)
• Swan Hill Neighbourhood House: (03) 5032 9238 — can help connect you with support