slsq statement of commitment

SLSQ has a responsibility to ensure the safety of all members particularly children and the youth. SLSQ are bound by the legislation of the Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000 (the Act), and the Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Regulation 2001.

Every person within SLSQ is bound by the statement of commitment and must always place the safety and welfare of children and youth above all other considerations.

SLSQ acknowledges that our staff and volunteers provide a valuable contribution to the positive experiences of our Junior Activities and youth members. SLSQ aims to ensure this continues, and to protect the safety and welfare of its young participants.

SLSQ further endeavours to provide a safe and supportive environment for children and young people through the implementation of its Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy which includes several measures, such as:

• Prohibiting any form of abuse against children;
• Providing opportunities for Junior Activities and/or youth members to contribute to and provide feedback on SLSQ’s program development;
• Carefully selecting and screening people whose role requires them to have regular contact with children and/or youth;
• Ensuring our codes of conduct, particularly for roles associated with Junior Activities and Junior Sport, are promoted, enforced and reviewed;
• Providing procedures for raising concerns or complaints; and
• Providing education and/or information to members on child abuse and child protection.

SLSQ requires that any child who is abused, or anyone who reasonably suspects that a child has been or is being abused by someone within our organisation to report it immediately in the first instance to the police or Department of Communities Child Safety and Disability Services, and to the association’s Safeguarding Children and Young People online reporting portal.

All allegations of child abuse will be dealt with promptly, seriously, sensitively, and confidentially. A person will not be victimised for reporting an allegation of child abuse and the privacy of all persons concerned will be respected.

If anyone bound by this statement of commitment reasonably suspects that a child is being abused by his or her parent/s, they are advised to contact the Police to report the allegation.

Yours in Lifesaving and Member Protection,

Gerard O'Brien - President

Dave Whimpey - Chief Executive Officer

Surf Life Saving Queensland