(1) The Government is committed to providing safe and supportive schools for all students and teachers. More than 800,000 students are enrolled in New South Wales public schools and the majority of them engage successfully in their schooling. There are times however, when the behaviour of a small number of students affects their own, or others', safety or wellbeing.

The Department of Education has policies and resources in place to support schools to prevent inappropriate and dangerous behaviour and to address issues effectively, where they do occur. School discipline processes can also be applied in response to an incident that has taken place outside of school hours and off school premises, provided there is a clear and close connection between the school and the conduct of students.

Consistent with the Education Act 1990 and Departmental policy, schools may develop additional components for their school discipline policy to meet local needs.

(2) School principals have the authority to take action when the behaviour of a student is detrimental to themselves or others, or to the achievement of high quality teaching and learning. In New South Wales public schools, suspensions apply for physical violence, use or possession of a prohibited weapon, firearm or knife, or for any student possessing or using a suspected illegal substance.