Child & Vulnerable People Safeguarding Policy
1. Purpose
Our Ocean School Ltd is committed to providing a safe environment for all children, young people, and vulnerable people engaged in our programs. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding, preventing harm, and responding to risks of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- Responsible People (Directors, Secretary, Public Officer)
- Staff and volunteers (Australia and Indonesia)
- Contractors and partner organisations working with Our Ocean School Ltd
3. Policy Statement
- Children, young people, and vulnerable people have the right to feel safe and be protected from harm.
- All staff, volunteers, and partners must act in the best interests of children and vulnerable people.
- Safeguarding responsibilities include prevention, early identification, and response to risks of harm, exploitation, neglect, or abuse.
4. Safeguarding Practices
1. Recruitment & Screening
- Working With Children Checks (where required) for Australian staff/volunteers.
- Reference checks for all staff and volunteers.
- Local community endorsements for Indonesian staff and volunteers.
2. Code of Conduct
- All staff, volunteers, and partners sign and comply with Our Ocean School Ltd’s Code of Conduct.
- Clear expectations around respectful behaviour, boundaries, and mandatoryreporting.
3. Training & Awareness
- Induction training on safeguarding for all staff and volunteers.
- Ongoing reinforcement of safeguarding responsibilities
4. Reporting & Response
- All concerns or allegations of harm must be reported immediately to the Chairperson or Secretary.
- Reports will be documented and addressed promptly, including referral to authorities if required.
5. Partnership Standards
- Partner organisations must uphold equivalent safeguarding standards.
5. Responsibilities
- Board of Directors: Oversee safeguarding compliance and review annually.
- Company Secretary: Maintain safeguarding records and complaints register.
- All staff/volunteers: Comply with this policy and report concerns.
6. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board to ensure effectiveness and alignment
with ACNC External Conduct Standards.
