Thank you to everyone who provided a submission on our draft Child Safe Policy. The final version was endorsed by Council at the 19 May 2020 Council meeting. Please click here to view.

Why have a Child Safe Policy?

Everyone has a role to play in keeping children safe from harm. Waverley Council supports the right of children and young people to have safe and happy experiences in our community, using our facilities and when in the care of our services.

Council shares with others a commitment to raising awareness, ensuring prevention and adequate responses to any suspected risk of significant harm of a child or young person.

The draft Child Safe Policy introduces a framework based around 10 standards that supports Council and Waverley’s community in keeping children safe. It describes practices, responsibilities and functions that ensure we meet our legislative requirements and proactively provide information, education and resources. The standards also aim to keep families involved and ensure children and young people are active participants in decisions affecting them.

What is child abuse and neglect?

Child abuse and neglect can take many different forms and includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, emotional abuse and psychological harm.

For detailed information, please refer to the Child at Risk of Harm and Neglect information on the Family and Community Services website.

What does the Policy cover?

The draft policy covers

  • practices that support Council’s commitment as a Child-Safe Organisation
  • the mandatory reporting of child protection concerns or incidents
  • the selection and recruitment of staff
  • procedures dealing with allegations against staff involving children and young people

What’s next?

We’ll collate the feedback we receive in a report to Council with recommendations about any changes. After endorsement by Council, we will develop an action plan, guidelines and procedures to support implementation of the Child Safe Policy in 2020. These procedures will ensure that children and young people have safe and positive experiences in our community, when accessing Council’s facilities and when in Council’s care.


What if I need help now?

If you need help, assistance or urgent support, call one of the following crisis services:

  • For an emergency, call the emergency number Triple Zero 000, to be connected to Police, Fire or Ambulance services.
  • If you think a child or young person is at risk of harm from abuse or neglect, contact the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111
  • For private and confidential telephone counselling for people aged 5 - 25 years, contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800

DRAFT CHILD SAFE POLICY SUBMISSION

Consultation has concluded