Although teachers in non-government schools have the right to discipline unruly, misbehaving or violent children, and a reasonable form of corporal punishment has been accepted in the teacher-student relationship, such punishment cannot be without a just cause or excuse. In determining what is reasonable, consideration must be given to the age, physique, and mentality of the child. The means of administration and the instrument used must also be considered. The punishment must be in accordance with the gravity of the offence and pupils should be capable of understanding the punishment. Legal action can be taken against a teacher who uses excessive violence or exceeds the limits of moderation.
Schools in Victoria have a process for dealing with complaints about the administration of various kinds of punishment to children. Generally, the first step is to make a written complaint to the school principal.