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How to choose a child safe organisation for your children 

When choosing an organisation to care for or work with your child, safety should always come first. Whether it’s childcare, school programs, youth services or community-based activities, parents and carers should feel confident that children and young people are supported in safe, respectful and inclusive environments.

 

So how can you tell if an organisation is child safe?

Here are some key things to look for.


What is a child safe organisation?

A child safe organisation puts the safety, wellbeing and rights of children and young people at the centre of everything they do. It’s not just about having policies in place; it’s about a culture where safety is part of everyday practice.

Child safe organisations:

  • Welcome and encourage feedback from children, families and staff

  • Create safe ways for children to speak up if something doesn’t feel right

  • Have clear codes of conduct, policies and complaints processes

  • Make sure all team members and volunteers are screened, trained and supported

  • Involve parents and carers as partners in children’s safety


What to ask or look for

As a parent or carer, you can ask questions or observe how an organisation operates. Some good signs include:

  • Staff who are open, approachable and respectful with children

  • Information available about child safety policies and practices

  • Opportunities for children and young people to express themselves safely

  • A clear process for raising concerns

 

If something feels unclear, trust your instincts and ask questions.


Child safety at Community First Step

At Community First Step, we work with children and young people across a wide range of services, including early childhood education, outside of school hours care, school readiness programs, youth drop-in and workshops, and family support. No matter the setting, child safety is at the heart of everything we do.


We are a child safe organisation, committed to creating spaces where children and young people feel safe, respected and heard. Our team members:

  • Are subject to thorough background checks and must hold a valid Working with Children Check

  • Follow a clear Child Safe Code of Conduct

  • Understand their responsibilities under the Child Safe Standards

  • Create environments that are inclusive, respectful and designed with children’s wellbeing in mind

 

We also encourage children and families to speak up, share feedback and be part of shaping safe, supportive services.


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Want to learn more?

Below are two helpful videos from the NSW Government’s Office of the Children’s Guardian that offer practical guidance on choosing child safe organisations.

 

  • A parent and carer guide to choosing a safe space for children:


  • SAFE Space - A parent and carer guide to choosing an organisation to work with your child – for parents and carers of children with disability


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We acknowledge the Cabrogal of the Darug Nation, the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, and communities. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and promote the continuation of their cultural and spiritual practices.
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We are a safe space for people from all walks of lives, religions, creeds, ethnic backgrounds and orientations.
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ACN: 002 318 603 | ABN: 63 002 318 603

25 Barbara Street,
Fairfield New South Wales 2165

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