This week, Council adopted a Child Safeguarding Policy, providing a clear statement of commitment to keeping children and young people safe.

The Policy provides a set of overarching practices aligned to the Child Safe Standards recommended by the Royal Commission and applies to all employees, trainees, volunteers, agents, consultants and contractors, irrespective of whether they have direct contact with or work with children and young people.

Mayor Michael Regan says that the safety of children is the responsibility of the whole community.

“As a community, we must all work together to keep our kids safe and free from harm or abuse.

“This policy commits us to providing and actively promoting a safe environment for children and young people.

“That includes robust recruitment, Working with Children checks and appropriate training for staff.

“We’ll promote child safety and welfare and ensure our hirers and leasees also have child-safe policies and practices in place as relevant.

“The Policy also recognises the importance of involving children and young people in decision making and providing opportunities for their feedback on how we plan, design, and develop our services and activities,” Cr Regan said.

The Policy was amended and adopted following community consultation with a high level of support for the draft Policy.