Head lice infestation is an unpleasant and embarrassing issue for many children and their families. However there is no significant health risk associated with head lice.  

In 1999 the Head Lice Working Party was convened by the Department of Health and Human Services, and a joint departmental policy on head lice was developed as a result.

This policy has been reviewed and a revised version was released in May 2001. 

DoE responsibilities include:

1. Giving direction for the management of head lice infestation within school communities, through membership of the Head Lice Working Party,
2. Monitoring of, and recommendation for changes in, the Head Lice Policy, through membership of the Head Lice Working Party.
3. Distribution of information to schools regarding the Head Lice Policy.
4. Directing enquiries from the community to Family and Child Health Nurses within the Department of Health and Human Services.

Head Lice Policy

Guidelines - Head Lice

Frequently Asked Questions

This brochure has proven popular with parents wishing to treat their children for headlice.  It was produced by the Department of Health and Human Services and initially developed by the Scottsdale Primary School Council.

• Bug Busters [PDF 112KB]

The nitbuster whole school approach - NSW

Victorian Health Department head lice