Mandatory Reporting
From 5 July 2021 all adults must report suspected sexual abuse or grooming, to police. The Mandatory Reporting Process for Ministry Agents, and the Mandatory Reporting Process for Lay Workers and Volunteers outlines the steps to take when reporting incidents of suspected abuse, grooming or neglect. This will ensure you are meeting your legal obligations and fulfilling your duty of care to the children involved in your activities. Keep a written record on the template for complaints and allegations. A copy of each of these documents is available below:
Find out more –
Blue Cards
All people working or volunteering in child-related roles must have a valid linked blue card or exemption card. For more information contact Blue Card Services.
Resources
- C/2.1.2.11 Guidance Notes: Blue card requirements for Lay Workers
- C/2.1.5.2 Guidance Notes: Blue Card Requirements for Ministry Agents
Links
Contact us
For all Safe Ministry with Children enquiries, please feel welcome to contact us.
Annual Safe Church audit: New resources
- C/2.1.13.2 Information Required in a Register of Volunteers
- C/2.1.13.3 Template: Model minute for church councils and presbyteries
- C/2.1.13.4 Template: Model Minute for Church Councils (Resolution)
- C/2.1.13.5 Blue Card Information Required for the Annual SMC Audit
- C/2.1.13.6 Pre-appointment Screening Information Required for the Annual SMC Audit
Complaints and allegations
Sometimes you may be the recipient of complaints or comments. Complaints or comments may be about suspected abuse or harm, inappropriate behaviours of other staff or volunteers, or concerns about the church premises. It is important for issues to be addressed and for relevant information (no matter how large or small) to be evaluated and acted on.
You may also need to make a report to Workplace Health and Safety, or if you are not sure, contact them for advice, via the link on this page.
Resources
Links
Choosing leaders and helpers
One of the best ways to create a safe church is selecting, screening and training people who will be entrusted with positions involving children. Once people are appointed to work with children in congregations, it is important that they receive support and encouragement. We recommend that this occurs soon after they commence and annually. Leaders and helpers should be acknowledged and supported by the congregation and commissioned each year.
Resources
Training
For all training enquiries please contact the Learning and Development team at learning@ucaqld.com.au or (07) 3377 9990
Links