Suspension of registration

The QCT can suspend a teacher’s registration or Permission to Teach in certain situations. If suspended, it is an offence against the Education (Queensland College of Teachers) Act 2005 if the person works as a teacher in schools. The teacher must return their registration or teaching certificate to the QCT within 14 days.

A teacher's registration or Permission to Teach can be suspended for these reasons:

Charged with a serious offence and/or disqualifying offence (Section 48)

• If a teacher is charged with a serious offence or a disqualifying offence, the QCT must suspend their registration or Permission to Teach.
• QCAT will review the suspension to decide if the circumstances are exceptional. If so, the suspension may end, but only if it’s in the best interests of the children.
• If the teacher is convicted of a serious offence or disqualifying offence, the QCT must cancel their registration or Permission to Teach.

Unacceptable risk of harm to children (Section 49)

• The QCT can suspend a teacher if they believe they pose a serious risk of harm to children.
• QCAT will review the suspension to decide if the teacher is an unacceptable risk to children.

Last updated:

16 June 2026