Gatekeeping and restrictive practices by Australian mainstream schools: results of a national survey

The Commonwealth of Australia (2016) inquiry into access to learning for students with disability received several submissions on gatekeeping practices in Australian schools, resulting in minimised school enrolment and reduced participation in classrooms. The inquiry also received reports of the use of restrictive practices such as restraint and seclusion. As Australia has ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006), which stipulates the requirement to provide inclusive, safe and effective learning environments and educational experiences for every person (Article 24), these practices warrant further investigation. As part of an Australia–wide survey of families and staff around the Disability Standards for Education 2005 (Com Law. 2015. Retrieved from http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2005L00767), data were collected on a range of gatekeeping and restrictive practices from more than 900 respondents, of whom 745 were family members of a student with disability. Over 70% of the families who participated in this study reported having experienced gatekeeping or restrictive practices. This study identifies that the practices were reported to be widespread over all levels and types of schools and for all types of disability, causing concern as to how Australia can meet its obligations as a signatory to the UN convention.