Karly Rae, a 35-year-old former special-needs teacher from New South Wales, has pleaded guilty to multiple child-related offences, including sexually abusing a 15-year-old student, grooming, possessing prohibited material, and attempting to influence an investigation. The case has drawn nationwide attention and raised serious questions about school safety and the boundaries of social media interactions.
Rae, who taught in the Lake Macquarie region, was first charged in October 2024 after authorities alleged she had developed a secret relationship with the teenage boy. Prosecutors said she used social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram to communicate inappropriately, arranging private meetings and encouraging secret contact. One of the messages reportedly read, “Maybe we could have one last rendezvous before school goes back. I’ll bring my toy.”
According to court documents reported by ABC News, the boy eventually confided in his mother about the messages. A cousin, who had seen some of the exchanges, also alerted the family, prompting them to contact authorities. Rae was arrested shortly afterward.
Initially, Rae denied all allegations and appeared emotional during earlier bail hearings. She was granted bail due to her pregnancy and gave birth just eight weeks before formally changing her plea. During the latest court appearance, Rae admitted to all offences while caring for her newborn.
Authorities, as reported by 7NEWS, allege Rae continued attempting to contact the student shortly before her arrest, violating her bail conditions. She has since lost her teaching position and is prohibited from being alone with anyone under the age of 16.
The case has sparked national discussions about the misuse of social media by teachers, the importance of early intervention when warning signs appear, and the safeguarding of students in schools. Parents, educators, and the wider public have voiced outrage, emphasizing the need for stricter monitoring and clear boundaries between students and staff.
Rae’s sentencing is scheduled for March 2026, where the court will weigh the seriousness of her offences, her position of trust as a teacher, and the emotional impact on the victim. Many Australians are watching closely, aware that the outcome will set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
This case remains one of the most concerning teacher misconduct incidents in recent Australian history, highlighting the critical need for safeguarding students and maintaining trust in educational environments.
• ABC News reported on Rae pleading guilty to multiple child-sex offences
• 7NEWS reported that Rae had been granted bail and later re-arrested for attempting to contact the student
