Published 29 Oct 2025
VIT Publishes Independent Review and Launches Reform Agenda to Strengthen Child Safety and Improve Regulatory Processes
The Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) has today published the findings of an independent review into its Professional Conduct Branch, alongside a comprehensive response outlining a multi-phase reform agenda.
Commissioned in May 2025, the review by Andrew Brown Consulting examined the effectiveness of VIT’s regulatory processes in managing teacher conduct matters. It identified key opportunities to improve timeliness, fairness, and risk-based decision-making, with a strong focus on child safety.
VIT Chief Executive Officer Martin Fletcher said the review represents a significant opportunity for the organisation to evolve.
Martin Fletcher, VIT Chief Executive Officer
“Following an independent review, the VIT is embracing a bold reform agenda to improve how teacher conduct matters are managed."
“This review is all about sharpening our focus on the most serious risks to child safety, while making our processes fairer and faster for everyone.”
The review found that delays in case resolution and a high volume of lower-risk matters were impacting VIT’s ability to focus on the most serious threats to child safety. In response, VIT has accepted all recommendations and will implement a staged reform program over the next 18 to 24 months.
Key reforms include:
- Streamlining intake and triage processes
- Prioritising high-risk cases
- Establishing a temporary team to reduce aged matters
- Introducing a dynamic risk assessment framework
- Enhancing stakeholder engagement and transparency
Martin Fletcher, VIT Chief Executive Officer
“We are not just improving systems. We are investing in people, technology and partnerships to deliver lasting change.”
“By listening, learning and acting, we are building a VIT that works better for everyone.”
Parents Victoria Chief Executive Officer Gail McHardy commented on VIT’s child safety efforts, highlighting the importance of government and employer support in addressing regulatory challenges.
Gail McHardy, Parents Victoria Chief Executive Officer
"Child safety is everyone’s responsibility. While regulators uphold the standards, it’s governments and employers who set the framework and provide the tools for success."
"Parents Victoria believe VIT has taken proactive steps with the increasing complexity of safeguarding and the heavy demands on regulators. Adequate support from both the government and education employers will be essential to keep students safe."
"Not every report leads to formal action, but every agency, school, and family can work together to reduce risks and prevent harm. Regulators are doing their best with what resources they have, but child safety requires a fully funded system-wide approach - the children and teachers deserve that commitment."
The full review and VIT’s response are now available on the VIT website.