Home and family

Smacking

What is smacking?

Smacking is hitting a child with an open hand, usually as a way to punish or discipline them.

Can a teacher smack you?

It is against the law for your teacher to ever hit you.

Can a parent smack you?

It is against the law for your parent or carer to smack you unless this is ‘reasonable punishment’.

Reasonable punishment depends on the situation, but no smack should cause more than a small, brief injury like reddening of the skin, scratches, or a graze. If you are smacked and have a more serious injury, the person who smacked you may have broken the law.

If, for example, you have been hurt in any of the following ways, you should speak to an adult you trust as soon as you can:

  • Losing or breaking a tooth
  • Breaking a bone
  • Having lots of bruises
  • Feeling very distressed
  • Having cuts that need stitches.

If you need advice and help, please contact Childline.

On this page
What is smacking?
Can a teacher smack you?
Can a parent smack you?

This information is correct at the time of writing, July 3, 2025. The law in this area is subject to change.

Coram Children’s Legal Centre cannot be held responsible if changes to the law outdate this publication. Individuals may print or photocopy information in CCLC publications for their personal use.

Professionals, organisations and institutions must obtain permission from the CCLC to print or photocopy our publications in full or in part.

This information is correct at the time of writing, July 3, 2025. The law in this area is subject to change.

Coram Children’s Legal Centre cannot be held responsible if changes to the law outdate this publication. Individuals may print or photocopy information in CCLC publications for their personal use.

Professionals, organisations and institutions must obtain permission from the CCLC to print or photocopy our publications in full or in part.