Policies
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YOUR CLUBS ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

SUTHERLAND SHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION MEMBER PROTECTION POLICY

CHILD PROTECTION

ACQUIRING IMAGES OF CHILDREN

CODE OF CONDUCT

DISCRIMINATION & HARASSMENT

PROCEDURE FOR HANDLING COMPLAINTS

FURTHER READING

YOUR CLUBS ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Governing bodies, clubs, coaches, officials, parents, players and participants all have a responsibility for creating a fair and safe environment for sport and recreational activities to be undertaken.

North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. has:

• a Member Protection Policy (or policies covering discrimination, harassment and child protection) and rules and procedures to deal with breaches of behaviour
• Codes of Conduct outlining expected standards of behaviour that players, coaches, officials, administrators and others must abide by
• practical guidelines and checklists that compliment key policies - for example, team selection, pregnancy in sport and alcohol
• a commitment to creating a fair and safe culture within the club, which includes effectively communicating all policies, procedures and guidelines
• appropriately-trained coaches
• people who are committed to sport being fun, safe and fair
• a Member Protection Information Officer, who is the first port of call for someone with a complaint, and whose role is clearly communicated to everyone in the club
• procedures to respond to any complaint: everyone should know how your club deals with complaints and where to go to outside of the club for help and advice.

(Adapted from Play by the Rules website)

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YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Besides being a player or participant you may undertake a number of roles in your club, including the role of coach or team manager, or a member of the management committee. It is important you understand that:

• you have the right to be treated in a non-discriminatory way and to receive a fair go
• you have a responsibility to treat others fairly and with respect, in how you play the game or in decisions you make
• you have a responsibility to report concerns
• that clubs can be held liable for the behaviour of their employees, volunteers and members. This is called vicarious liability.

You should treat all participants as you would like to be treated yourself:

• co-operate with your team mates, coach and opponents
• control your temper: verbal abuse and sledging are not acceptable behaviours
• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their ability, gender or cultural background.

You must feel safe:

• playing, at training and practice
• traveling to and from games and training
• with other players, your coach or team personnel.

No-one should:

• make bullying, derogatory or demeaning remarks about you or other people
• make racist or sexist jokes or comments, or jokes or comments about sexual preference
• use anti-gay, anti-women or racist slurs to taunt someone or to motivate better performance
• allow offensive pictures or graffiti to be visible
• look at or touch anyone in ways that make then feel uncomfortable
• make uninvited sexual comments that offend, intimidate or humiliate
• discriminate against or harass anyone.

(Adapted from Play by the Rules website)

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SUTHERLAND SHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION MEMBER PROTECTION POLICY

PREFACE

PART A – MEMBER PROTECTION POLICY

1. SSFA’s Core Values
2. Purpose of Policy
3. Who this Policy Applies To
4. Code of Conduct
5. Organisational Responsibilities
6. Individual Responsibilities
7. Policy Position Statements
7.1 Child Protection Policy
7.2 Anti-Discrimination & Harassment Policy
8. Complaints Procedures
8.1 Complaints
8.2 Vexatious Complaints & Victimisation
8.3 Mediation
8.4 Tribunals
9. What is a Breach of this Policy
10. Forms of Discipline
11. Dictionary

PART B – ATTACHMENTS
B1. Role of the Member Protection Officer.
B2. SSFA Child Protection Policy/Role of the Child Protection Officer.
B3. Child Protection Legal Framework.
ASC Member Protection Policy Framework Template 1

PREFACE

This Member Protection policy is based on the principle that Sutherland Shire Football Association has legal obligations to their members, participants, officials and the community in relation to harassment, discrimination and child protection under anti discrimination and child protection laws. Furthermore Sutherland Shire Football Association also has a moral and professional obligation to establish
appropriate standards of behaviour and ensure that sporting activities and environments under its control are safe, fair, respectful and accessible. Increasingly Insurance Companies are also requiring comprehensive risk management plans that include policies and procedures to address harassment, discrimination and child protection.

This Member Protection policy aims to ensure that core values and positive behaviours are maintained within the SSFA. As a policy, it helps ensure that everyone involved with SSFA is aware of their legal and moral rights and responsibilities and that appropriate behaviour will be addressed.

Mr Craig McCallum
President Sutherland Shire Football Association
2007

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1. Core Values

Sutherland Shire Football Association is committed to providing opportunities for participation
in football activities under its control. Furthermore SSFA is committed to ensuring the health,
safety and welfare of all members.

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2. Purpose of this policy

This Member Protection Policy aims to ensure our core values, good reputation and positive behaviours
and attitudes are maintained. It assists us in ensuring that every person involved in our sport is treated
with respect and dignity, and is safe and protected from abuse. This policy also ensures that everyone
involved in our sport is aware of his or her legal and ethical rights and responsibilities.
The policy provides the framework to support our commitment to eliminating discrimination, harassment,
child abuse and other forms of inappropriate behaviour from our sport. As part of this commitment,
SSFA will take disciplinary action against any person or organisation bound by this policy for any
breach.
This policy has been endorsed by the Management Committee and has been incorporated into our By-
Laws. This policy and/or its attachments may be amended from time to time by the Management
Committee as per the constitution.

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3. Who this Policy Applies To

This policy applies to the following, whether they are in a paid or unpaid/voluntary capacity:
· Individuals sitting on boards, committees and sub-committees;
· Employees and volunteers;
· Support personnel (e.g. managers, physiotherapists, psychologists, masseurs, sport trainers);
· Coaches and assistant coaches;
· Players;
· Referees and other officials;
· Members, including life members;;
· Affiliated clubs
· Any other person or organisation that is a member of or affiliated to Sutherland Shire Football
Association
· Parents, guardians, spectators and sponsors to the full extent that is possible.
This policy will continue to apply to a person even after they have stopped their association or
employment with SSFA if disciplinary action, relating to an allegation of child abuse against that person,
has commenced.

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4. Code Of Conduct

Sutherland Shire Football Association requires every individual and organisation bound by this policy to:
4.1 Be ethical, fair and honest in all their dealings with other people and SSFA
4.2 Treat all persons with respect and courtesy and have proper regard for their
dignity, rights and obligations;
4.3 Always place the safety and welfare of children above other considerations;
4.4 Comply with SSFA’s constitution, rules and policies including this member
protection policy;
4.5 Operate within the rules and spirit of the sport;
4.6 Comply with all relevant Australian laws (Federal and State), particularly antidiscrimination
and child protection laws;
4.7 Be responsible and accountable for their conduct; and
4.8 Abide by any relevant Role-Specific Codes of Conduct.

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5. Organisational Responsibilities

Sutherland Shire Football Association and all affiliated clubs must:
5.1 Adopt, implement and comply with this policy;
5.2 Publish, distribute and otherwise promote this policy and the consequences for breaching it;
5.3 Promote appropriate standards of conduct at all times;
5.4 Promptly deal with any breaches of or complaints made under this policy in an
impartial, sensitive, fair, timely and confidential manner, ensuring natural justice;
5.5 Apply this policy consistently without fear or favour;
5.6 Recognise and enforce any penalty imposed under this policy;
5.7 Ensure that a copy of this policy is available or accessible to the persons to
whom this policy applies
5.8 Appoint or have access to appropriately trained people to receive and handle
complaints and allegations [e.g. Member Protection Information Officers (MPIOs)
and/or Complaint Managers and display the names and contact details in a way that
is readily accessible; and
5.9 Monitor and review this policy at least annually.

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6. Individual Responsibilities

Individuals bound by this policy are responsible for:
6.1 Making themselves aware of the policy and complying with the standards of conduct outlined in this
policy;
6.2 Consenting to a national police check if the individual holds or applies for a role that
involves working with people under the age of 18 years.
6.3 Complying with all other requirements of this policy;
6.4 Co-operating in providing a discrimination, child abuse and harassment free sporting
environment;
6.5 Understanding the possible consequences of breaching this policy.

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7. Policy Position Statements

7.1 Child Protection
Every person and organisation bound by this policy must always place the safety and welfare of
children above all other considerations.
SSFA acknowledges that our staff and volunteers provide a valuable contribution to the positive
experiences of our juniors. SSFA aims to ensure this continues and to protect the safety and
welfare of its junior participants. Several measures will be used to achieve this such as:
· Prohibiting any form of abuse against children;
· Providing opportunities for our juniors to contribute to and provide feedback on our program
development;
· Carefully selecting and screening people whose role requires them to work with children.
· Ensuring our codes of conduct are promoted, enforced and reviewed;
· Providing procedures for raising concerns or complaints.
· Providing education and/or information to those involved in our sport on child abuse and child
protection.
· Supporting the SSFA Child Protection Policy
SSFA 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 sport, to report it immediately to the Member
Protection/Child Protection Officer, police or relevant government agency. Descriptions of the
sorts of activity which may be abuse are in the Dictionary accompanying this document.
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. Our procedures for handling allegations of child abuse will
follow those recommended by the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation.
If anyone bound by this policy reasonably suspects that a child is being abused by his or her
parent/s, they are advised to contact the relevant government department for youth, family and
community services in their state/territory.

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7.2 Anti-Discrimination, Racial Vilification and Harassment Policy SSFA aims to provide a sport environment where all those involved in its activities are treated
with dignity and respect, and without harassment vilification or discrimination.
SSFA recognises that all those involved in its activities cannot enjoy themselves, perform to their
best, or be effective or fully productive if they are being treated unfairly, discriminated against or
harassed because of their sex, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, race, age, disability,
homosexuality, sexuality, transgender, religion, political belief and/or industrial activity.
SSFA prohibits all forms of harassment vilification and discrimination not only because it is
against the law, but because it is extremely distressing, offensive, humiliating and/or threatening
and creates an uncomfortable and unpleasant environment.
Descriptions of some of the types of behaviour which could be regarded as harassment or
discrimination are provided in the Dictionary.
If any person feels they are being harassed or discriminated against by another person or
organisation bound by this policy they should report this to the MPO.

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8. Complaints Procedures

8.1 Complaints
SSFA aims to provide an easy to use, confidential and trustworthy procedure for complaints
based on the principles of natural justice. Any person may report a complaint (complainant) about
a person/s or organisation bound by this policy if they reasonably believe that a person/s or a
sporting organisation has breached this policy. A complaint should be reported to the Member
Protection Officer.
A complaint may be reported as an informal or formal complaint. The complainant decides
whether the complaint will be dealt with informally or formally unless the Member Protection
Officer considers that the complaint falls outside the parameters of this policy and would be better
dealt with another way.
All complaints will be dealt with promptly, seriously, sensitively and confidentially according to the
principle of natural justice.

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8.2 Vexatious Complaints & Victimisation
SSFA aims to ensure our complaints procedure has integrity and is free of unfair repercussions or
victimisation. If at any point in the complaint process the Member Protection Officer/Investigations
Officer considers that a complainant has knowingly made an untrue complaint or the complaint is
vexatious or malicious, the matter may be referred to the Executive or Management Committee
for appropriate action which may include a referral to a disciplinary committee for action against
the complainant.
SSFA will also take all necessary steps to make sure that people involved in a complaint are not
victimised by anyone for coming forward with a complaint or for helping to sort it out. Disciplinary
measures will be imposed on anyone who victimises another person for making a complaint.

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8.3 Mediation
SSFA aims to sort out complaints with the minimum of fuss wherever possible. In many cases,
complaints can be sorted out by agreement between the people involved with no need for
disciplinary action. The people involved in a formal complaint - the complainant and the person
complained about (respondent) - may also seek the assistance of a neutral third person or a
mediator. Lawyers are not able to negotiate on behalf of the complainant and/or respondent.
ASC Member Protection Policy Framework Template 5
Mediation may occur either before or after an investigation of a complaint. If a complainant wishes
to try and resolve the complaint with the assistance of a mediator, the MPO / other designated
person will, in consultation with the complainant, arrange for a mediator to mediate the complaint.

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8.4 Tribunals
A hearings tribunal may be formed to hear a formal complaint that has been referred by the MPO
or Investigations Officer for an alleged breach of the policy. Our tribunal hearings procedure is
outlined in the Association by laws.
A respondent may lodge an appeal only to the appeal tribunal in respect of a decision of a hearing
tribunal. The decision of the appeal tribunal may be appealed to Football NSW where this is
permitted. Our appeals process is outlined in the Association by laws.
Every organisation bound by this policy will recognise and enforce any decision made, and form
of discipline imposed by an appeals tribunal under this policy.
The Management Committee, MPO, Investigations Officer and Members of hearing and appeal
tribunals will be indemnified by SSFA against any claim for loss, compensation or damages, and
for costs incurred defending a claim made against them, because of their function under this
policy.

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9. What is a Breach of this Policy

It is a breach of this policy for any person or organisation to which this policy applies, to
have been found to have
9.1 Done anything contrary to this policy;
9.2 Breached the Code of Conduct and/or any Role-Specific Codes of Conduct;
9.3 Brought the sport and/or SSFA into disrepute;
9.4 Failed to follow SSFA policies and procedures for the protection, safety and
welfare of children;
9.5 Appointed or continued to appoint a person to a role that involves working with
children and young people contrary to this policy;
9.6 Discriminated against or harassed any person;
9.7 Victimised another person for reporting a complaint;
9.8 Engaged in a sexually inappropriate relationship with a person that the person
supervises, or has influence, authority or power over;
9.9 Disclosed to any unauthorised person or organisation any SSFA information
that is of a private, confidential or privileged nature;
9.10 Made a complaint they knew to be untrue, vexatious, malicious or improper;
9.11 Failed to comply with a penalty imposed after a finding that the individual or
organisation has breached this policy;
9.12 Failed to comply with a direction given to the individual or organisation during
the discipline process.

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10. Forms of Discipline

If an individual or organisation to which this policy applies breaches this policy, one or more forms of
discipline may be imposed. These may include making a verbal or written apology, paying a fine, being
suspended or de-registered or having a person’s appointment or employment terminated. Breaches of
Child Protection legislation may result in a report to the Commission for Children and Young People.
Possible disciplinary measures are outlined in the Association by laws.

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11. Dictionary

This Dictionary sets out the meaning of words used in this policy and its attachments without limiting the
ordinary and natural meaning of the words. State specific definitions and more detail on some of the
words in this dictionary can be sourced from the relevant State child protection commissions or equal
opportunity and anti-discrimination commissions.

Abuse is a form of harassment and includes physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect,
and abuse of power. Examples of abusive behaviour include bullying, humiliation, verbal abuse and
insults.
Affiliated club means a member club of Sutherland Shire Football Association.
Appeals Committee refers to the SSFA Sub Committee operating under section H2 of the Constitution.
Appeals Tribunal refers to a special committee set up by the Management Committee of SSFA to
handle appeals from decisions of the Complaints/Judiciary Tribunal on Member Protection matters.
Child means a person who is under the age of 18 years (see also definition of young person)
Child Protection Officer (CPO) means a person who may be the first point of contact on Child
Protection Issues who has similar responsibilities as the Member Protection Officer. This person may
also be the MPO and should have the necessary skills for this position.
Child abuse relates to children at risk of harm (usually by adults, sometimes by other children) and
often by those they know and trust. It can take many forms. Children may be harmed by both verbal and
physical actions and by people failing to provide them with basic care. Child abuse may include:
· Physical abuse by hurting a child or a child’s development (e.g. hitting, shaking or other physical
harm; giving a child alcohol or drugs; giving bad nutritional advice; or training that exceeds the
child’s development or maturity).
· Sexual abuse by adults or other children where a child is encouraged or forced to watch or engage
in sexual activity or where a child is subject to any other inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature
(e.g. sexual intercourse, masturbation, oral sex, pornography including child pornography or
inappropriate touching or conversations).
· Emotional abuse by ill-treating a child (e.g. humiliation, taunting, sarcasm, yelling, negative criticism,
name calling, ignoring or placing unrealistic expectations on a child).
· Neglect (e.g. failing to give food, water, shelter or clothing or to protect a child from danger or
foreseeable risk of harm or injury).
Complaint means a complaint made under this policy.
Complainant means the person making a complaint.
Complaint/Judiciary Tribunal refers to a special committee set up by the Management Committee of
SSFA to handle alleged serious breaches of the Member Protection Policy. The Tribunal members
should have received the necessary training in issues pertaining to Child Protection, Anti Discrimination
and Harassment.
Discrimination means treating or proposing to treat a person less favourably than someone else in
certain areas of public life on the basis of an attribute or personal characteristic they have. The relevant
attributes or characteristics are:
· Age;
· Disability;
· Marital status;
· Parental/carer status;
· Physical features;
· Political belief/activity;
· Pregnancy;
· Race;
· Religious belief/activity;
· Sex or gender;
· Sexual orientation;
· Trade union membership/activity;
· Transgender orientation.
.
Discrimination may be direct or indirect. Direct discrimination is treating, or proposing to treat
someone less favourably because of a characteristic (such as race, sex, age etc), in the same or similar
circumstances. Indirect discrimination is imposing or intending to impose a requirement, condition or
practice that is the same for everyone but which has an unequal or disproportionate effect on particular
individuals or groups.
Harassment is any type of behaviour that the other person does not want and does not return and that
is offensive, abusive, belittling or threatening. The behaviour is unwelcome and of a type that a
reasonable person would recognise as being unwelcome and likely to cause the recipient to feel
offended, humiliated or intimidated.
Unlawful harassment includes the above but is either sexual or targets a person because of their race,
sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexuality or other characteristic (see characteristic list under
discrimination).
Whether or not the behaviour is harassment is determined from the point of view of the person receiving
the harassment. The basic rule is if someone else finds it harassing then it could be harassment.
Harassment may be a single incident or repeated. It may be explicit or implicit, verbal or non-verbal.
Investigation Officer means a person appointed by the Management Committee to investigate alleged
breaches of the Member Protection Policy, report findings and make suggestions for future directions.
Judiciary Committee refers to the SSFA sub committee operating under section H of the SSFA
Constitution
Junior means a person under the age of eighteen (18) years who is participating in an activity of the
SSFA
Mediator means a person appointed to mediate complaints made under this policy. It is preferable that
the mediator has relevant skills, qualifications and/or training in mediation.
Member means all players, coaches and officials participating in SSFA activities and members of
affiliated clubs of Sutherland Shire Football Association

Member protection is a term used by the Australian sport industry to describe the practices and
procedures that protect members – both individual members such as players, coaches and officials, and
the member organisations such as clubs, state associations, other affiliated associations and the
national body. Member protection involves:
· protecting those that are involved in sport activities from harassment, abuse, discrimination and
other forms of inappropriate behaviour
· adopting appropriate measures to ensure the right people are involved in an organisation,
particularly in relation to those involved with juniors, and
· providing education.
Member Protection Information Officer (MPO) means a person trained to be the first point of contact
for a person reporting a complaint under, or a breach of, this policy. The MPO provides confidential
information and moral support to the person with the concern or who is alleging harassment or a breach
of this policy. They help the complainant deal with any emotions they may have about what has
happened and operate as a sounding board as the complainant decides what they want to do. The MPO
may accompany the complainant in anything they decide to do, if it feels appropriate and they are happy
to do it. A summary of the roles of the MPO is outlined in attachment B1.
Natural justice incorporates the following principles:
· a person who is the subject of a complaint must be fully informed of the allegations against them
· a person who is the subject of a complaint must be given full opportunity to respond to the
allegations and raise any maters in their own defence
· all parties need to be heard and all relevant submissions considered
· irrelevant matters should not be taken into account
· no person may judge their own case
· the decision maker/s must be unbiased, fair and just
· the penalties imposed must not outweigh the ‘crime’
Police check means a national criminal history record check conducted as a prudent pre-employment
or pre-engagement background check on a person.
Policy and this policy mean this Member Protection Policy.
Respondent means the person who is being complained about.
Role-specific codes of conduct means standards of conduct required of certain roles (e.g. coaches).
Sexual harassment means unwanted, unwelcome or uninvited behaviour of a sexual nature which
makes a person feel humiliated, intimidated or offended. Sexual harassment can take many different
forms and may include unwanted physical contact, verbal comments, jokes, propositions, display of
pornographic or offensive material or other behaviour that creates a sexually hostile environment.
Sexual harassment is not behaviour based on mutual attraction, friendship and respect. If the interaction
is between consenting adults, it is not sexual harassment.

Sexual offence means a criminal offence involving sexual activity or acts of indecency including but not
limited to (due to differences under state/territory legislation):
· Rape
· Indecent assault
· Sexual assault
· Assault with intent to have sexual intercourse
· Incest
· Sexual penetration of child under the age of 16
· Indecent act with child under the age of 16
· Sexual relationship with child under the age of 16
· Sexual offences against people with impaired mental functioning
· Abduction and detention
· Procuring sexual penetration by threats or fraud
· Procuring sexual penetration of child under the age of 16
· Bestiality
· Soliciting acts of sexual penetration or indecent acts
· Promoting or engaging in acts of child prostitution
· Obtaining benefits from child prostitution
· Possession of child pornography
· Publishing child pornography and indecent articles.
SSFA means Sutherland Shire Football Association
Tribunal means the Complaints/Judiciary Tribunal
Victimisation means subjecting a person or threatening to subject a person to any detriment or unfair
treatment because that person has or intends to pursue their rights to make a complaint under
government legislation (e.g. anti-discrimination) or under this policy, or for supporting another person to
make a complaint.
Vilification involves a person or organisation doing public acts to incite hatred towards, serious
contempt for, or severe ridicule of a person or group of persons having any of the attributes or
characteristics within the meaning of discrimination. Public acts that may amount to vilification include
any form of communication to the public and any conduct observable by the public.
Young People/person means people under 18 years of age.

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SUTHERLAND SHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION MEMBER PROTECTION POLICY - Attachments

ATTACHMENT B1
THE ROLE OF THE MEMBER PROTECTION OFFICER
Member protection is a term used by the Australian sports industry to describe the practices and procedures that protect an organisation’s members – both individual members such as players, coaches and officials, and the member organisations such as clubs, state associations, other affiliated associations and the national body. Member protection involves:
· protecting members from harassment, abuse, discrimination and other forms of inappropriate behaviour
· adopting appropriate measures to ensure the right people are involved in an organisation, particularly in relation to those involved with juniors
· providing education
· promoting and modelling positive behaviour
Member protection officers
A member protection officer, formerly known as a harassment contact officer, is the first point of call in a club or sporting organisation for any enquiries, concerns or complaints about harassment and abuse. The officer provides confidential information and moral support to the person with the concern or who is alleging harassment. The officer is integral to the successful implementation of a sport’s Member Protection Policy.
Member protection officers do not investigate or resolve conflicts or try to bring the complainant and the person complained about together. They help the complainant deal with any emotions they may have about what has happened and operate as a sounding board as the complainant decides what they want to do. The officer may accompany the complainant in
anything they decide to do, if it seems appropriate and they are happy to do it. In summary, the member protection officer role involves:
· listening
· providing support (but not taking over)
· providing information and options about what a person might do (but not advice)
· supporting the complainant in taking the matter further if that is what the complainant wants and the officer feels able to do it
· keeping up-to-date with information on harassment, discrimination and other forms of inappropriate behaviour
· understanding their sport’s policies and procedures in relation to harassment and discrimination
· being accessible, approachable and able to maintain confidentiality· operating regionally as an member protection officer by being available to other sports in the region.

ATTACHMENT B2 - CHILD PROTECTION POLICY SSFA
1. POLICY STATEMENT
Sutherland Shire Football Association Inc is committed to ensuring that the health, safety and welfare of all children and young people is maintained at all times during their participation as a player, coach, official, volunteer or spectator. This Association as an affiliated member of Soccer NSW fully support the Child Protection Policies and guidelines of this organization.
2. WHY
The Child protection Act 1998 sets out specific legal requirements for all organizations involved with children and young people. Sutherland Shire Football Association supports this legislation and the need to ensure the safety and welfare of all children and young people. A summary is provided in attachment B3.
3. HOW
Child protection will be an important responsibility of all committee members and a Child Protection Officer will be appointed as a committee member responsible for child protection issues.
4. ROLES OF THE CHILD PROTECTION OFFICER AND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
These roles will be to:
* promote a safe and supportive environment for all children and young people· implement strategies that focus on the best interests of children· increase awareness of child protection issues to affiliated clubs, officials, parents and players
· ensure that all affiliated clubs, officials and parents are aware of their legal obligations under child protection legislation
· provide information to assist clubs and officials in dealing with all forms of child abuse
· provide guidelines to all clubs and officials on minimizing risk
· provide guidelines to all clubs and officials on notification of child abuse
· ensure that all members are aware of the codes of conduct
5. CODES OF CONDUCT
The philosophy behind the Child Protection policy is reflected within the Codes of Conduct for all members. These codes of conduct align all members with the values and ethics of Sutherland Shire Football Association. They state what is considered appropriate behaviour for ensuring the welfare of children and the good reputation of this Association
6. REVIEW
This policy and the codes of conduct will be reviewed annually and updated when necessary.


ATTACHMENT B3
Summary of Child Protection Legislation
Every sporting organisation has a legal duty of care and a moral responsibility to ensure everyone who takes part in the organisation’s programs and activities is protected from all reasonably foreseeable risks of harm. This is a common law responsibility that covers both action and inaction.
In addition to this duty of care, there are responsibilities and requirements under child protection legislation for organisations and individuals that work or have contact with children.
Child abuse is illegal in all states and territories of Australia, with each having their own laws that cover the reporting and investigation of cases of child abuse.
There is also new screening or checking processes and other requirements being introduced under new child protection laws in each state and territory. These processes and to whom they apply, also vary across states and territories.
Child protection legislation makes it mandatory for sporting organisations and individuals involved in sport, as a paid employee or a volunteer, to meet certain requirements. These requirements also apply to individuals and organisations originating from outside of the state or territory with child protection legislation in place. For example, if a sporting organisation sends juniors interstate to New South Wales for a training camp, competition or other activity, those
travelling with the team must comply with the New South Wales legislative requirements.
The following provides a summary of information relevant to the sport industry in relation to existing legislation in New South Wales.

In July 2000 landmark legislation, the Working with Children Check, was introduced into New South Wales . This requirement strengthened the existing child protection approach in NSW and impacted on all people working with children. The legislation has had ramifications not only for the sport industry in NSW but for those from other states who venture into NSW.
The goal of the legislation is to provide environments were children are safe and protected. To achieve this, unsuitable people need to be prevented from working with children and young people. Checking the suitability of people who will work in a direct, unsupervised capacity with children is a significant step towards reducing the risk of children being abused by those entrusted with their care.
1. Commission for Children and Young People Act 1998 (NSW)
The act establishes and guides the functions of the Commission for Children and Young People. The act also:
· Makes it mandatory to screen preferred applicants for paid child related employment. The NSW Department of Sport and Recreation is the Approved Screening Agency for the sport and recreation industry. Employers must conduct employment screening on preferred applicants using a Working with Children Request Form (PDF)
· Allows for the introduction of non-mandatory screening of existing paid employees and volunteers. However, the Commissioner for Children and Young People is currently considering the options for screening of volunteers through
their Voluntary Screening Reference Group. ASC Member Protection Policy Framework Template 13
· Enables the Commission to maintain a database of completed disciplinary proceedings and Apprehended Violence Orders.
· Establishes strict confidentiality arrangements in relation to all information obtained during employment screening.
· Provides protection from liability or similar claim for any person who provides information in relation to employment screening in good faith and with reasonable care.
2. Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998 (NSW)
This act prohibits any person found guilty of committing certain serious sex offences from working in child related employment. A serious sex offence is an offence involving sexual activity or acts of indecency that is punishable by a prison sentence of 12 months or more if it was committed in NSW. The act requires all people working with children (paid workers and volunteers) to sign a Prohibited Employment Declaration, indicating whether or not they are a prohibited
person. It is an offence for a prohibited person to work with children.
3. Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 (NSW)
The Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 is a result of changing community attitudes on how we should care for and protect children and young people and incorporates recommendations of the Wood Royal Commission.
The act promotes flexible, responsive and innovative methods to address problems experienced by families and seeks to involve children in the decision making process for their safety, welfare and well being. The act outlines requirements for mandatory reporting, that is employees that are required by law to report any incident to Department of Community Services if a child is at risk of harm.
4. Child Protection (Offenders Registration) Act 2000 (NSW)
Under this act, a person who has been found guilty of certain offences against children will be known as a “Registrable Person”. A “Registrable Person” automatically becomes a “Prohibited Person” under the Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998.
The term ‘certain offences’ includes:
· Murder
· Sexual Offences
· Indecency offences punishable by imprisonment of 12 month or more
· Kidnapping
· Offences connected with child prostitution
· Possession or publication of child pornography

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CHILD PROTECTION

The issue of child abuse is a complex problem that has an impact on all areas of society, including participation in sport and recreation activities. The Wood Royal Commission into the NSW Police Service, led to increased community awareness of the significant number of child sexual assaults and incidents of abuse, which occur. It also highlighted the need for the development and implementation of strategies to protect children from abusive situations.

The North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. acknowledges its responsibility of protecting children from abuse. By implementing strategies that will assist in preventing child abuse from occurring, North Sutherland Soccer CLub believes it has taken a pro-active role in relation to child protection and intervention. These strategies will help to foster a safe and positive environment for children and young people to participate in the sport of soccer within our club..

In addition, the development of Child Protection Policy and Guidelines provides the North Sutherland Rockets with an excellent risk management tool for developing prevention strategies and for the effective management of child abuse issues within sport. Information contained in this document will create a framework and provide direction for employees, officials, coaches, volunteers, members and parents of children and young people involved in the North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club, and affiliated member organisations. It will help deliver a consistent approach to child abuse prevention at all levels within the game of soccer .

Policy Statement

The North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. is committed to ensuring that the health, safety and welfare of children is maintained at all times during their participation in activities run by the soccer club and its affiliated member bodies. The North Sutherland Rockets aims to promote a safe environment for all children and to assist all employees, coaches, referees, members and volunteers to recognise child abuse and neglect and follow the appropriate notification guidelines when reporting alleged abuse.

Why?

The focus of the policy and guidelines is the prevention of child abuse in the sporting environment, specifically Soccer in the Sutherland Shire. This policy and guidelines promote the care and protection of children participating in soccer and provide information and direction for employees, official, coaches, volunteers and members of the organisation. This policy and guidelines will assist North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. in establishing coordinated strategies for dealing with the problem of child abuse and neglect in a responsible, effective and consistent manner.

Key Objectives

Through the development of this policy North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. objectives are to:

• Provide information to assist employees and volunteers in dealing with all forms of child abuse.
• Provide comprehensive guidelines relating to risk minimisation and reporting/notification guidelines.
• Provide direction to all employees and volunteers regarding their legal responsibilities under child protection legislation.
• Promote and adopt Soccer NSW Ltd principles for child protection and intervention amongst employees, volunteers, coaches, members and parents of Children participating in the organisation’s programs and competitions.

Scope

The Child Protection Policy of The North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. is applicable to all management and employees (paid, voluntary, permanent or casual)

Implementation of Policy

In order to implement the child protection legislation The North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. will undertake to:

• Implement strategies and guidelines that focus on the best interests of children and meet the requirements of child protection legislation.
• Promote a safe and supportive environment for all children and young people participating in activities, which are under the control of Soccer NSW Ltd.
• Increase awareness and emphasise the importance of child protection issues in a sporting environment to all those involved with the activities of Soccer NSW Ltd. This includes administrators, coaches, officials, athletes, parents and their children.
• Ensure that all officials and volunteers of The North Sutherland Soccer Club Inc. are aware of their responsibilities arising form recent child protection legislation, in particular, the requirement under the Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998, to inform the club committee if they have been convicted of a serious sex offence.

Expectations

Administrators, coaches, officials, members and volunteers often have a high level of contact with children in the sporting environment and play a major part in the successful operation of sporting activities. Coaches and officials are often seen as role models. They have significant influence on the children they come into contact with and therefore have significant responsibilities. North Sutherland Rockets Soccer Club Inc. expects that all administrators, coaches and officials whether paid or unpaid, who participate in organised sport under the banner of this organisation will commit to implementing risk management strategies developed by Soccer NSW Ltd for child protection.

Policy Review

The North Sutherland Rockets Soccer CLub Inc. Child Protection Policy and Guidelines will be reviewed annually and updated in line with any legislative changes that have significant impact on the manner in which child protection an issues are to be dealt with.

(adapted from the Soccer NSW Child Protection Policy)

Clicking on this link will take you to the Play by the Rules Website

ACQUIRING IMAGES OF CHILDREN

Concerns have been raised about the potential risks of child abuse posed directly and indirectly to children and young people through the use of photographs on sports web sites and in publications. Evidence in Australia indicates that information posted on an
internet site or published in a magazine or newspaper can be used to target children, to locate them, and then to condition or ‘groom’ them for abuse or exploitation. There is evidence that certain individuals will visit sporting events to take photographs or video
footage of young and/or disabled sports people for inappropriate use. Additionally, images can be used or adapted for inappropriate use. The end result is that, in spite of the best intentions of the sporting organisation, children can end up being victims of
abuse.

The following information has been provided to assist sporting clubs and associations when acquiring and displaying images of children and young people on web sites and in other publications.

Acquiring images

• If acquiring an image of a child, permission needs to be obtained from the athlete’s parent / guardian prior to taking the child’s image. Ensure that all concerned are aware of the way in which the image is to be used.
• Where possible, request that all people taking photographic / video images (including spectators, parents, coaches, professional photographers or members of the media) register at an event or facility. Provide members of the media and professional
photographers with an identification pass that they wear for the duration of the event.
• Clearly outline to professional photographers that all images taken will remain the property of the sporting organisation and can not be used or sold for any other purpose. Also outline that all negatives / proofs etc need to be destroyed or given to the sporting organisation at the conclusion of the event for which the photographer has been contracted or within a specified timeframe.
• Clearly outline what is considered appropriate behaviour and content (i.e. the image obtained in the photo or by video) to those taking photographic / video images. Publicise this information throughout your organisation so that your members
understand what behaviour from photographers your organisation considers appropriate.
• Do not allow photographers (professional photographers, spectators, fans, coaches or members of the media) unsupervised or individual access to athletes/children.
• Do not approve photo/video sessions outside the event venue or at the home of a child unless parent/guardian consent is obtained and they agree to be present at the photo opportunity.
• Provide details of who to contact if concerns or complaints of inappropriate photographic behaviour or content are raised.

Displaying images

• Consider using models or illustrations for promotional / advertising purposes.
• If permission needs to be obtained from the parent / guardian of the athlete/child, obtain it prior to using the image of the athlete/child. Ensure that all concerned are aware of the way in which the image is to be used and for how long the image will be displayed.
• If the athlete/child is named, avoid using their image.
• If an image is used, avoid naming the athlete/child. If this is not possible avoid using both a first name and surname.
• Do not display personal information such as residential address, email address or telephone numbers without gaining consent from the athlete/child, or if applicable, their parent/guardian.
• Do not display information about hobbies, likes / dislikes, school, etc as this information can be used as grooming tools by paedophiles or other persons.
• Only use appropriate images of the athlete/child, relevant to the sport or activity, and ensure that the athlete/child is suitably clothed. Images of athletes participating in sports or activities that involve minimal clothing (e.g. swimming and gymnastics) or unusual body positions / poses could potentially be misused. The age of child is another factor to consider when deciding if the image is
appropriate. The image should focus on the activity and not on a particular child.
• Reduce the ability for the direct copying of pictures from a website to another source (i.e. disable the ‘right mouse click’ function)
• Provide details of who to contact and what to do if concerns or complaints of inappropriate image use are raised.

(Written by the Sport Ethics Unit, www.ausport.gov.au © Australian Sports Commission 2005)

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CODE OF CONDUCT

PLAYERS CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Play by the rules. It is just as important to understand the spirit of the rules. They are designed to make the game fun to play and fun to watch. By sticking to the rules, you will enjoy the game more.
2. Play to win. Winning is the object of playing any game. Never set out to lose. If you do not play to win, you are cheating your opponents, deceiving those who are watching, and also fooling yourself. Never give up against stronger opponents but never relent against weaker ones.
3. Play fair. Winning is without value if victory has been achieved unfairly or dishonestly. Playing fair requires courage and character and is more satisfying. Playing fair earns you respect, while cheats are detested.
4. Refrain from conduct which may be regarded as sexual harassment towards fellow players and coaches.
5. Never argue with an official. If you disagree, have your captain, coach or manager approach the official during a break or after the competition. Fair play means respect. Referees are there to maintain discipline and fair play.
6. Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials and sledging other players, deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent, are not acceptable or permitted behaviours in any sport.
7. Be honest with the coach concerning illness and injury and ability to train and compete to the best of your ability.
8. Work equally hard for yourself and/or your team. Your team’s performance will benefit, so will you. A professional appearance relating to language, manner, temper and punctuality is to be adopted at all times.
9. Be a good sport. Applaud all good plays whether they are made by your team, or the opposition.
10. Accept defeat with dignity. Nobody wins all the time. Learn to lose graciously. Don’t seek excuses for defeat, genuine reasons will always be self-evident. Congratulate the winners with good grace. Don’t blame the referee or anyone else. Good losers earn more respect than bad winners.
11. Promote the interests of football, it is the world’s greatest game. Think of football’s interests before your own. Think how your actions may affect the image of the game. Talk about the positive things in the game. Encourage other people to watch it or play it fairly. Be an ambassador for the game.
12. Treat all participants in your sport as you like to be treated. Do not bully or take unfair advantage of another competitor. Reject corruption, drugs, racism, violence and other dangers to our sport. Watch out for attempts to tempt you into cheating or using drugs. Drugs have no place in football, or in our society. Say no to drugs.
13. Help others to resist corrupting pressures. You may hear that team-mates or other people you know are being tempted to cheat in some way. Give them the strength to resist. Remind them of their commitment to their team-mates and to the game itself. Form a block of solidarity, like a solid defence on the field of play.
14. Co-operate with your coach, team-mates and opponents. Without them there would be no competition. They have the same rights as you have, including the right to be respected.
15. Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please parents and coaches.
16. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
17. Denounce those who attempt to discredit our sport. Don’t be ashamed to show up anybody who you are sure is trying to make others cheat. It’s better to expose them and have them removed before they can do any damage. It often takes more courage to denounce what is wrong, than to go along with a dishonest plan.
18. Honour those who defend football’s good reputation. The good name of football has survived because the vast majority of people who love the game are honest and fair. Sometimes somebody does something exceptional that deserves our special recognition. They should be honoured and their fine example made public. This encourages others to act in the same way.

PARENTS CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Remember that children participate in sport for their enjoyment, not yours.
2. Encourage children to participate, do not force them.
3. Focus on the child’s efforts and performance, rather than on winning or losing.
4. Encourage children to always play according to the rules and to settle disagreements without resorting to hostility or violence.
5. Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or losing.
6. Remember that children learn best by example. Appreciate and congratulate good performances and skilful play by ALL participants.
7. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from all sporting activities.
8. Respect the Referee’s and Official’s decisions and teach children to do the same.
9. Show appreciation for volunteer coaches, managers and officials.
10. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person, regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
11. Do not interfere with the progress and or conduction of the game.

Junior player's Parent's and Senior players commitment to the Club

1. Parents of juniors must take their turn in washing the teams shirts and returning them at least 30 minutes before the next game (at least once per round)
2. Parents and senior plaeyrs are required to undertake Canteen/BBQ (approx. 2 hours per round) and Setup/Packup (approx. twice per round) duties
3. Parents are expected to get their child to training and the game or arrange for someone to take their child to and from training/game
4. Parents and senior players are expected to support fund raising and other activities to build up the club by attending functions and helping to raise funds when requested
5. Parents and players should support their teams coaches and managers. Any problems should be directed to the committee. NEVER contradict coaches and managers on the field.

COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Remember that young people participate for pleasure, winning is only part of the fun.
2. Never ridicule or yell at a young player for making a mistake or not coming first.
3. Be reasonable in your demands on players time, energy and enthusiasm.
4. Operate within the rules and spirit of the game and teach all players to do the same.
5. Ensure that the time the players spend with you is a positive experience. All young people are deserving of equal attention and opportunities.
6. Avoid overplaying the talented players, ensure all players have an equal amount of time in every match.
7. Ensure that equipment and facilities meet all safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of the players.
8. Display control, respect and professionalism to all involved with the sport. This includes all opponent players, coaches and managers as well as parents, spectators referees and officials. Encourage players to do the same.
9. Show concern and caution towards sick or injured players. Always follow the advise of any Doctor when determining whether or not a player is ready to resume training or playing.
10. Obtain appropriate qualifications and keep up to date with the latest coaching practices and the principles of growth and development of young people.
11. Any physical contact with any young person should be appropriate to the situation and necessary for the player’s skill development.
12. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
13. Treat each player as an individual. Respect the talent, development stage and goals of each player and help each player reach his or her full potential.
14. Do not interfere with the progress and or conduct of the game unless called upon to do so by an Official.
15. Abide by the Referee’s decisions.

ADMINISTRATORS CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Involve young people in planning, leadership, evaluation and decision making related to the activity.
2. Give all young people the opportunity to participate.
3. Create pathways for young people to participate in sport, not just as a player, but also as a coach, referee, Club official etc.
4. Ensure that rules are explained and adhered to, equipment is maintained in a safe condition and training schedules are arranged to suit the various age groups.
5. Provide quality supervision and instruction for juniors.
6. Remember that young people participate for their enjoyment and benefit. Do not over emphasise success awards.
7. Help coaches and officials highlight appropriate behaviour and skill development and help improve the standard of coaching and officiating.
8. Ensure that everyone involved in our sport emphasises fair play and does place excessive importance on winning.
9. Ensure all players, spectators, parents, coaches, managers and officials are aware of the Code of Conduct for the Club and encourage all to follow it.
10. Remember you set the example. Your behaviour and comments should be positive and supportive.
11. Support all National Policies in regard to code of conduct and child protection.
12. Make it clear that abusing young people in any way is unacceptable and will result in disciplinary action.
13. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
14. Compliment and encourage all participants.
15. Be consistent, objective and courteous when making decisions.
16. Condemn unsporting behaviour and promote respect for all opponents.
17. Emphasise the spirit of the game rather than the errors.
18. Be a “good sport”, actions speak louder than words.
19. Do not interfere with the progress and or conduct of a game unless called upon to do so by an Official.
20. Abide by the Referee’s decisions.

SPECTATORS CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Remember that young people participate in sport for their enjoyment and benefit, not yours.
2. Applaud good performances and efforts from all individuals and teams. Congratulate all participants on their performance, regardless of the result.
3. Respect the decisions of the Referees and encourage young people to do the same.
4. Never ridicule or scold a young player for making a mistake, positive comments are motivational and more benefit.
5. Condemn the use of violence in any form, whether it is by spectators, coaches or players.
6. Show respect for your team’s opponents, without them there would be no game.
7. Encourage players to follow the rules and abide by the referee’s decisions
8. Do not use foul or abusive language, sledge or harass players, coaches or officials.
9. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person, regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
10. Do not interfere with the progress and or conduct of the game.

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DISCRIMINATION & HARASSMENT

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COMPALINT HANDLING PROCEDURE

To view the process for dealing with complaints or allegations of discrimination, harassment or abuse

Procedure Flowchart

FURTHER READING

Pregnancy in Sport

Guidelines for Coaches and Officials

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