Media reports or new criminal proceedings about historical sexual abuse at a school
When the department becomes aware of media reports (including social media reports) or new criminal charges relating to historical child sexual abuse by an adult working in a Victorian government school, the Restorative Engagement and Support team will support all relevant schools to respond in a way that is transparent, accountable, safe, and trauma-informed.
The response may include:
- supporting the principal to inform staff, parents and carers of the media or court proceedings
- providing information to parents on the child safety measures the school has in place today
- ensuring the community is aware of how to report and seek support if needed – for many schools there may be parents, family or community members that attended the school in the relevant time period, who may benefit from learning of the supports offered by the department in relation to historical child sexual abuse.
The department’s Restorative Engagement and Support team will prepare communications for the school to send out to their school community, in consultation with the department’s Legal Division and Media Unit and the school’s regional director.
The timing and content of any such communication may depend on a range of factors including advice from police or direct consultation with victim-survivors.
Reviewed 03 December 2025