Maroondah unveils new Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy as a ‘Child Sa

Published on 30 June 2022

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Maroondah City Council is committed to being a child safe organisation, where all children and young people are valued and protected from harm and abuse.

Council has developed a new Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy (including a Child Safe Code of Conduct) in response to the Victorian Government’s updated Child Safe Standards, which take effect on 1 July 2022. 

The Child Safe Standards are a compulsory framework for Victorian organisations that provide services and facilities specifically for children and young people aged 0 to 18 years.

They aim to:

  • promote the safety of children
  • prevent child abuse
  • ensure organisations and businesses have effective processes in place to respond to and report all allegations of child abuse

The Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy outlines how Council will work as a child safe and child friendly organisation to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people.

“Council recognises that protecting children and preventing and responding to child abuse and harm is an organisation-wide responsibility. We commit to regularly reviewing our policies, procedures and documentation to ensure that child safety principles are embedded into the everyday thinking and practice of Council,” Deputy Mayor, Cr Rob Steane said.

“As a child safe organisation, the welfare and safety of the children and young people in our care is our priority. We are committed to providing welcoming, safe and accessible environments where all children and young people feel valued, are listened to, and are considered and involved in decisions that affect their lives,” Cr Rob Steane said.

Further information

See Council’s Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy.

Learn more about Child safety and wellbeing on our webpage.

Find out more about the Victorian Government’s updated Child Safe Standards.

If you or someone you know needs support or assistance

  • If a child is in immediate danger, call 000 (triple zero)
  • For immediate concerns and to report abuse, contact:
    • The police on 000 (triple zero), and/or
    • the Department of Health and Human Services phone DHHS on 1300 360 391 or After hours on 13 12 78.
  • Lifeline 13 11 14 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online with a Crisis Supporter any time of the day or night.
  • Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or connect with a Kids Helpline counsellor through webchat or email counsellor@kidshelpline.com.au
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