Human Resources

Complaints, unsatisfactory performance and misconduct

Overview

The Department has a responsibility to ensure that employees maintain high standards of conduct and performance.  The Department is committed to a high performing workforce and to providing safe and supportive work environments where excellence is pursued, underperformance is managed, diversity is valued and everyone is treated with respect, fairness and dignity. Discrimination, sexual and other forms of harassment, bullying, violence and threatening behaviour are unacceptable.  It is therefore incumbent on a principal or manager to act where a complaint, unsatisfactory performance or misconduct involving an employee is observed or brought to his or her attention, whether or not a formal complaint has been lodged. 

Every day, principals and managers may deal with a range of challenges such as workplace conflict, parent and community member concerns, staff and student grievances, and policy issues. These matters are dealt with in accordance with the needs and requirements of the particular school community or workplace, taking into account Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (“Department”) policy and best practice.

A positive workplace climate, including recognition that misconduct and unsatisfactory performance will be dealt with promptly and fairly and within the context of an improvement focussed set of procedures, is an integral component of a healthy, successful and fulfilling working environment.

It is incumbent on principals and managers to act where a complaint, unsatisfactory performance or misconduct involving a staff member is observed or brought to her or his attention, whether or not a formal complaint has been lodged.

In determining the appropriate action the principal or manager, subject to satisfying any legal or policy requirements, should use his or her professional judgement to decide whether the matter should be dealt with as a complaint, unsatisfactory performance or misconduct.

Where the matter involves alleged serious misconduct, unsatisfactory performance  or sexual harassment the Conduct and Ethics Branch must be contacted for advice regarding the appropriate course of action.  Advice is also available in relation to the managing of complaints.

Detailed information regarding the handling of complaints, misconduct and unsatisfactory performance is in the guidelines available under ‘Procedures and Forms’ below.  

Other Resources

Procedures & Forms – Teaching Service

Procedures & Forms - Public Service

Legislation

Related Topics

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