In this article, the author critiques the notion of accountability in teachers' work. It serves to place in context the rationale and introduction of accountability mechanisms, such as the performance management policy, as implemented in South Australian public education. Further, it serves to illustrate what MacPherson (1998, p. 4) describes as "the politically critical position... wherein the blame for outcomes is devolved more to educators while governments are increasingly insulated from criticism." Against the backdrop of Renee Kuchapski's (1998) article entitled, "Conceptualizing accountability: A liberal framework," the discussion sheds light on the following: the definition of the term "accountability"; the political and ideological principles that underlie the concept of accountability; and the purpose of accountability mechanisms in teachers' work in South Australia.