Queensland College of Teachers

Dealing with the complaint

If the QCT does not refuse to deal with a complaint, it must start disciplinary proceedings by referring the matter to either the Professional Practice and Conduct Committee or the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal or authorising a disciplinary investigation.

The QCT may refuse to deal with a complaint against a teacher if the QCT reasonably believes the complaint:

• if proved, would not establish a ground for disciplinary action against the person who is the subject of the complaint
• is trivial, unreasonable or without substance
• concerns a frivolous matter or was made vexatiously
• is based on an allegation that could more appropriately be dealt with by another entity
• is based on an allegation that has already been adequately dealt with by the QCT or another entity
• having regard to the length of time that has elapsed since the matter complained of happened, it is not practicable for the QCT to deal with the complaint
• the complainant refuses without reasonable excuse to provide further information or a statutory declaration reasonably required by the QCT to decide whether to deal with the complaint.

Where the complaint is based on an allegation that could more appropriately be dealt with by another entity. The QCT may refer the matter to another agency or advise the complainant to do so.

If the QCT refuses to deal with a complaint the QCT will give notice to the complainant as soon as practicable and keep a record about the complaint and the QCT’s refusal to deal with it.

A complainant may request a statement of reasons of the decision to refuse the complaint. This request must be made in writing to the Assistant Director, Registration and Professional Conduct within 28 days of the date of receipt of the notice of the decision from the QCT.

A request for review of the decision to refuse to deal with a complaint must be made in writing and received by the Director of the QCT within 28 days of the date of receipt of the notice of the decision from the QCT.

The teacher will be advised of the decision of the QCT once the time for the complainant to lodge a review of a refusal to deal with a complaint decision has lapsed.