EDUGUIDE 2C — REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Required Documentation Parents Can Request

A complete list of investigation records, adjustment evidence, decision files, and behaviour documentation parents are entitled to request under Victorian Education obligations.

See the Full Checklist See the Full Checklist
← Back to All EduGuides
← Back to Pathway 2 — Compliance & Investigation

Why These Documents Matter

Under MO1125, principals must show evidence of investigation, consideration of adjustments, and fair decision-making. These documents allow families to:

  • verify whether policy was followed
  • identify missing supports or unfair process
  • understand the school's reasoning
  • prepare for reviews, complaints or appeals
  • ensure the suspension was lawful, proportionate and procedurally fair

Full Documentation Checklist Parents Can Request

Schools must keep these records. Parents may request them at any stage of the investigation or disciplinary process.

Investigation Records

  • Principal investigation notes
  • Witness statements
  • Staff observations
  • CCTV reference notes (if applicable)
  • Incident statements from all parties

Evidence & Decision Basis

  • Evidence the principal relied on
  • Chronology of events
  • Notes on the child's response opportunity
  • Rationale for suspension or decision

Adjustment & Support Evidence

  • IEP / ILP
  • Behaviour support plans
  • Safety or risk plans
  • Adjustment logs (required under MO1125)
  • Records of implemented supports

Behaviour & Incident Documentation

  • Behaviour logs
  • Yard duty reports
  • Classroom reports
  • Past incidents relevant to pattern analysis

Communication Records

  • Emails with staff or leadership
  • Meeting notes (formal or informal)
  • Phone call summaries (if recorded)

Principal Decision Files

  • Suspension letter
  • All drafts or amendments
  • Internal decision records
  • MO1125 compliance notes

How to Request These Documents

Requests should always be made in writing. Clear, neutral language ensures the school can respond efficiently and appropriately.

Script: Requesting Documentation

Subject: Request for Documentation — Investigation & Decision Records Dear [Principal], I am requesting copies of all documentation related to the decision made on [date] regarding [student name]. Specifically, I am requesting: • investigation notes and evidence • adjustment and support logs • relevant plans (IEP/ILP, behaviour, safety) • communication records • the full principal decision file These records will help us understand the decision and prepare for next steps. Thank you for your assistance. Kind regards, [Your Name]

Script: If the School Delays or Refuses

Subject: Follow-Up Request — Required Documentation Dear [Principal], I am following up on my request for documentation submitted on [date]. These records are required to understand the basis of the decision and to ensure MO1125 processes were followed. Could you please confirm when these documents will be provided? If needed, I am happy to restate the document list. Thank you, [Your Name]

Ready for the next step?

The next guide helps you test whether the principal followed procedural fairness requirements under MO1125.

Continue to 2D — Procedural Fairness Test →