SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN
ABOUT:
AFL Victoria is committed to promoting and protecting the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people who participate in AFL/W activities, programs, services and/or use AFL/W facilities by fostering a culture where children and young people feel safe and welcome.
From 1 July 2022, new legislated Standards for Safeguarding Children and Young People (the Victorian Child Safe Standards) commence. All leagues, clubs and associations who deliver programs, services, and/or facilities to children and young people must comply with these Standards. Further information about your legal requirements can be found at CCYP | Child Safe Standards.
To help leagues, clubs, associations and all their members understand the new requirements, AFL Victoria has created a range of educational webinars and resources that can be accessed online.
Ensure you league, club, association and members are aware of the new legislative requirements by accessing the resources available below:
- Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy – a policy template for leagues, clubs and/or associations to utilise to update their current policy
- Child Safeguarding Declaration – a statement to declare your leagues, club and/or association’s commitment to implementing the new Child Safe Standards
- Safeguarding education webinars and resources – a range of educational assets to assist leagues, clubs, associations and its members in transitioning to the new Child Safe standards
Club Child Safety Officer (CSO):
The CSO role is a volunteer role appointed by the Clubs’ Committee.
The role will serve as the first point of contact for club community members and others who have concerns about a child or young person within the club and provide advice and support to assist that person with making a report.
The CSO will champion the safeguarding message and work with the Committee to practically implement the policies and procedures.
