We are pleased to share important information on the ACT Child Safe Standards Scheme.
Many of you will have heard the news reports from Victoria recently about a man charged with multiple offences against children. Sadly, this is not an isolated case. While it's natural to feel angry and distressed, this is a timely reminder to all organisations providing services for children and young people that you play an important role in keeping them safe. The Child Safe Standards (CSS) were developed to help prevent harm to children and young people and are now mandatory in the ACT for all child related services.
That everyday care and connection is exactly what the ACT Child Safe Standards are designed to support. The CSS give us a shared language and framework, and you as a teaching professional help bring the Standards to life every day. Your insights and instincts matter. When we say, "children and young people's safety is everyone's responsibility," we really mean it. And you are doing so much of it already, often without realising.
Understanding Your Role in Child Safety
Whether you are already familiar with the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations or seeking to understand the requirements, an awareness raising session can help your senior leaders, staff and volunteers learn how to improve their child safety practices. The CSS provide a comprehensive framework that transforms good intentions into concrete actions, helping organisations create environments where children feel valued, heard, and protected.
Take Action: Join the Upcoming Webinars
CYPS is offering multiple opportunities for you and your team to deepen your understanding of the ACT Child Safe Standards through their Introduction to the ACT Child Safe Standards webinars:
Register for one of these upcoming sessions:
These sessions are perfect whether you want a clearer view of the CSS for yourself, need to learn more about how they apply to your organisation, or want to provide your entire team with a comprehensive overview of their responsibilities.
Additional Resources and Support
For comprehensive resources, training materials, and ongoing support, visit the ACT Human Rights Commission's dedicated webpage. Here you'll find practical tools, implementation guides, and additional training opportunities to help your organisation not just comply with the CSS, but excel in creating safe, supportive environments for children and young people.
Moving Forward Together
Please share this information and encourage your people to learn more about the CSS. Together, we can make the ACT a safer place for all children and young people.
Remember, every interaction matters, every policy counts, and every person in your organisation has a role to play in child safety.
The CSS aren't just about preventing harm, they're about creating communities where children can flourish, knowing that the adults around them are committed to their wellbeing and protection.