Identify the process first

Read the notice carefully. Identify who issued it, what allegations are made, the dates and deadlines, and whether it is an investigation, employer disciplinary process, SACE matter or another formal process.

Preserve the chronology

Keep notices, statements, emails, contemporaneous records and versions of documents together. Do not alter or backdate records after allegations arrive.

Get representation early

Where the matter can affect employment, registration or legal exposure, obtain appropriate union, labour or legal support early.

Answer the allegation you actually received

Separate facts you know from information reported by others. If you do not know or cannot remember something, do not invent certainty.

Do not approach witnesses improperly

Use the formal process and your representative to deal with witness evidence. Do not pressure learners, parents or colleagues about what they should say.

Professional note

Use applicable school, employer, departmental and professional procedures and obtain case-specific advice where appropriate.