The QCT has the power to undertake, and regularly undertakes, investigations to assess whether teachers, schools and various authorities are complying with the provisions of the Education (Queensland College of Teachers) Act 2005.
In order to determine compliance with the requirement that only approved teachers can be employed in schools, the QCT carries out an annual investigation of the employment records of a sample of Queensland schools.
For more information about your legal obligations on compliance as a registered teacher, employer or other authority.
The QCT also conducts investigations into practice and conduct matters involving teachers. It will do so either on its own initiative and when authorised to do so by the Professional Capacity and Teacher Conduct Committee (PC&TCC) or the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
The purpose of an investigation is to gather all relevant information to enable a practice and conduct body (either QCAT or PC&TCC) to decide whether a ground for disciplinary action against the teacher exists.
If the QCT reasonably believes on the basis of information received that a ground for disciplinary action against the teacher may exist, the QCT may authorise an investigation.
The QCT will advise the teacher about the investigation as soon as it is practicable to do so. However, the QCT may not advise the relevant teacher about the investigation in particular circumstances.
When the investigation is complete, the investigator will provide a written report about the Investigation to the QCT or the PC&TCC.