Darwin teacher contests interim suspension over child-welfare allegations

Bindi Isis, a teacher with 25 years of experience in Darwin, is seeking a review of a provisional suspension imposed by the Northern Territory Teacher Registration Board in May after a school principal lodged a complaint. The board’s action was taken pending a formal inquiry into allegations relating to child welfare, psychological safety, professional judgement and fitness to teach. Isis contends that the board relied solely on the principal’s notification, which she says includes exaggerations, speculative statements and conflicts of interest, and that she was never given a chance to address the issues or restore her working relationship.

She provided a comprehensive response in April, featuring a timeline of the dispute, evidence of her competence, and letters of support from parents and colleagues. The board counters that the complaint was supported by extensive documentation, a history of performance management, and multiple sources, arguing that allowing her to teach would pose an unacceptable risk to children. The matter is set for a closed compulsory conference before the Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal.