Can my child be punished for not wearing a
uniform?
This would depend on the circumstances. Children should
not be punished if their parents or caregivers cannot afford
to buy a uniform. Parents should approach the school,
which may have second-hand uniforms that can be
purchased cheaply. Parents who are on a low income or
benefit may be able to obtain financial assistance from the
Department of Work and Income. Parents may be able to
get an advance payment to purchase their child’s uniform
and other equipment for school.
However, if a student refuses to wear a uniform, the
school could:
• warn a student of the consequences
• give detention or extra duties
• stand-down or suspend a student for continual
disobedience, if he or she has had a number of
warnings.