Disturbing allegations about treatment of children with disabilities include suspensions, expulsions and a claim one was sat on by a staff member.

The peak advocacy body for children with disabilities has called on the federal government to urgently introduce better targeted funding to support teachers and their students, following disturbing claims about behaviour management in the classroom and a study showing 80 per cent of principals lack the resources to help students with disability.

Children with Disability Australia chief executive Stephanie Gotlib said the Coalition’s promised disability loading, which would direct funding to students most in need, would alleviate pressure on a stretched system.