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Child Protection Policy

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Effective Date: December 2024
Last Updated: December 2024

Lukad AV Academy is committed to the safety and well-being of all children and young people accessing our services. This policy outlines our approach to creating a safe environment for children in compliance with the Australian child protection framework, including the relevant state and federal regulations.

1. Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines to:

  • Ensure the safety and welfare of children in our care.

  • Protect children from harm, abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

  • Comply with mandatory reporting obligations and child protection laws in Australia.

  • Provide staff, contractors, and volunteers with clear procedures to respond to child protection concerns.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and other representatives of Lukad AV Academy involved in delivering our services to children and young people.

3. Legislative Framework

This policy is informed by the following key laws and guidelines:

  • Federal Law: National Principles for Child Safe Organisations.

  • State/Territory Laws:

    • Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 (NSW).

    • Working with Children Checks as mandated in each state or territory.

    • Crimes Act 1900 (NSW): Covers mandatory reporting of child abuse.

    • Child Safe Standards (varies by state, e.g., NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian).

Further details on state-specific regulations are available through the Australian Institute of Family Studies​

School Finder

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4. Principles

We commit to the following principles:

  1. Zero Tolerance for Child Abuse: All forms of child abuse are unacceptable.

  2. Empowering Children: Encourage children to express their concerns and participate in decisions affecting them.

  3. Cultural Safety: Respect and protect the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and children from diverse cultural backgrounds.

  4. Accessibility: Provide equal opportunities for children with disabilities to access our programs safely.

5. Recruitment and Screening

  • All employees, contractors, and volunteers must:

    • Hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) relevant to their jurisdiction.

    • Undergo reference checks to assess their suitability for working with children.

    • Complete mandatory child protection training before commencing work.

6. Code of Conduct

All personnel must:

  • Act professionally and respectfully toward children at all times.

  • Avoid one-on-one interactions in private settings.

  • Report any suspected harm or abuse immediately to the relevant authority.

  • Refrain from physical punishment, inappropriate language, or behaviour that may harm or distress a child.

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7. Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse

All personnel have a responsibility to identify and report child abuse or neglect, which includes:

  • Physical Abuse: Non-accidental physical injury.

  • Emotional Abuse: Significant harm caused by verbal abuse, bullying, or neglect.

  • Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity or exploitation involving a child.

  • Neglect: Failing to provide necessary care, supervision, or protection.

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Reporting Procedure:

  1. Recognize: Identify signs of abuse or harm.

  2. Respond: Ensure the child’s immediate safety if in danger.

  3. Report: Notify the relevant child protection authority (e.g., NSW Child Protection Helpline: 132 111).

  4. Record: Document concerns, actions taken, and communication.

For additional resources on reporting abuse, visit the NSW Department of Communities and Justice​

School Finder

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8. Child Safety Education

We provide ongoing training to staff and volunteers to:

  • Recognize and respond to signs of child abuse.

  • Understand legal obligations for mandatory reporting.

  • Implement child-safe practices in our operations.

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9. Complaints and Investigations

All complaints regarding child safety will be handled promptly and transparently.

  • Investigations will be conducted in accordance with legal requirements and with respect for all parties involved.

  • Any substantiated breaches will result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or engagement.

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10. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to changes in legislation or organisational needs.

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11. Contact Details

For concerns or questions about this policy, please contact:
Email: lukadavacademy@gmail.com
 

For immediate concerns about child safety, contact your local child protection agency:

  • NSW Child Protection Helpline: 132 111

  • National Child Abuse Helpline (Child Wise): 1800 991 099

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