This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Some private schools have begun asking parents to sign a code of conduct to try to stop abusive behavior toward teachers. In media reports, some principals have called out parents for a sense of entitlement, bullying of staff and refusing to admit when their child has misbehaved.
Public schools are also taking new steps to try to curtail abusive parents. Victoria and South Australia have introduced laws to give principals the power to ban abusive parents from school grounds. This includes banning parents who are abusive in person, by email, phone or social media.
New South Wales is also considering similar laws. Why have such strong measures become necessary? Parents need to be able to question school decisions, raise concerns and advocate for their children.
These are all important parts of meaningful parent engagement with education. But research clearly shows abusive behavior toward teachers has been growing. For 15 years, Australian survey research has tracked school leaders' experiences, including those of principals, deputy principals and other senior leaders.
It has found that parents and caregivers are a significant and growing source of threatening and abusive behavior. In 2025, parents and caregivers were identified as the source in almost two-thirds of reported threats of violence. In 2011, this figure was less than 25%.
In 2025, nearly nine in 10 cases of cyberbullying of school principals came from parents and caregivers. The impact is not confined to overt threats. Research tells us school leaders also manage persistent complaints, aggressive communication and expectations of constant availability from parents.
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