A practical guide to reading suspension letters, identifying missing information, and requesting a lawful and procedurally fair review.
Ministerial Order 1125 outlines mandatory components that must appear in every suspension notice. If any element is missing or unclear, parents may request clarification or an updated letter.
The letter must state the exact behaviour or incident and how it meets one of the grounds in MO1125.
Includes start date, end date, number of days, and the specific days your child is not permitted to attend.
The principal must show what information was gathered, from whom, and how findings were considered.
The letter must state which adjustments were considered or used, as required for students with disability.
Must reference Ministerial Order 1125 and the exact clause that relates to the decision.
Includes when the reintegration meeting will occur and who will attend.
If required elements are missing, unclear or inaccurate, the suspension may not meet procedural fairness or compliance requirements. These red flags indicate when clarification or correction may be appropriate.
The letter does not clearly describe the incident, investigation, or duration.
MO1125 requires a review of adjustments before a decision can be made.
If the letter is issued by an AP or teacher, it may not be lawful.
MO1125 must be referenced, including the relevant clause.
These rights are protected under Victorian legislation, the Student Engagement Policy, and the Students with Disability Policy.
You may request incident reports, BSPs, risk assessments, and adjustment records.
You can request a meeting to understand the decision and review supports.
You may request an SSG meeting immediately after receiving the letter.
If information is inaccurate or incomplete, you may request an updated letter.
After suspension, the school must hold a structured meeting with parents to plan a safe, supported return. This meeting is required under Ministerial Order 1125.
The school must provide a clear, factual account of what occurred — not interpretations.
Staff must show which adjustments were in place and what additional supports are required.
The Behaviour Support Plan must be updated with new strategies, triggers and responses.
A plan for the child’s return, with steps, supports and transition arrangements.
Schools must monitor progress and review adjustments over the coming weeks.
Ask the school to clarify details or provide missing evidence.
If the process appears unfair, you may request a review.
Check whether the decision followed fair process.
SEIL/region escalation may be appropriate if concerns remain unaddressed.
Subject: Request for Clarification — Suspension Letter Dear [Principal], I am requesting clarification about the suspension decision for [Student Name]. To understand the decision clearly, could you please provide: • the specific evidence relied upon • how the behaviour linked to policy • whether [Student] was given an opportunity to respond • details of any adjustments or supports considered Thank you for your assistance. Kind regards, [Your Name]
Subject: Request for Review — Suspension Decision Dear [Principal], I am requesting a review of the suspension decision made on [date] for [Student Name]. I have concerns that: • [procedural fairness was not followed / evidence was incomplete / adjustments were not considered / decision was unreasonable] Could you please confirm a time for a meeting to review the decision and consider next steps. Thank you, [Your Name]
The next guide lists every document you can request — including investigation notes, adjustment records, and incident files.