TPAQ Pushes to Cut Red Tape in Queensland Schools

Queensland's Department of Education has released two updates affecting teachers and school leaders, following the Red Tape Reduction Working Group meeting on 10 September 2026. TPAQ sits on this working group, here are the key developments.  

A new performance and accountability framework is being drafted

Under the Brighter Futures Education Strategy, the department is developing a new performance and accountability framework, aimed at strengthening local decision-making and giving schools more differentiated supervision and support. The draft framework rejects a one-size-fits-all approach, and sets out guidance on priorities, performance expectations, and the support available to schools and school leaders. It's currently out for consultation with schools and stakeholders. 

Read the full Red Tape Reduction Working Group communique (10 September 2026) for the complete update. 

Small schools support plan: what's changed since August

The Small Schools Support Plan, published in May 2025 under Commitment 5 of the Red Tape Reduction Plan, recognises the distinct role small schools play in Queensland education. The department reports that key actions have been delivered across all three priority areas of the plan, and work continues to align future actions with the needs of teaching principals.

Separately, the department has developed a new resource to support recording behaviour incidents in OneSchool. The fact sheet and related professional development material are available on OnePortal (DoE employees only).

Why it matters

Red tape and administrative burden are consistently among the biggest complaints teachers and school leaders raise with TPAQ. Having a seat at this table means TPAQ can push for changes that are grounded in what actually reduces workload, rather than administrative reform decided without teacher input. 

Have your say

The department is inviting feedback on the Small Schools Support Plan. If you'd like your feedback passed on through TPAQ's seat on the working group, or want to submit it directly, email redtapereduction@qed.qld.gov.au. 

want to know more about tpaq?

TPAQ members can get in touch with our member support team by calling 1300 252 777 or email hotline@tpaq.asn.au for support.