Child Protection Policy

Purpose and commitment

Nimbin Youth is committed to the safety, wellbeing and empowerment of all children and young people. We have zero tolerance for child abuse, harm or neglect. This policy outlines how we work to protect young people from harm and respond appropriately to concerns.

This policy reflects our commitment to being a child-safe organisation and aligns with the NSW Child Safe Standards and relevant NSW legislation.

Scope

This policy applies to all Nimbin Youth staff, volunteers, contractors, board members, partners and visitors who engage with children and young people through our programs, activities or spaces.

Our approach

Nimbin Youth takes a trauma-informed, strengths-based and relational approach to youth work. We recognise that young people have the right to feel safe and respected and that adults have a shared responsibility to protect them from harm.

We aim to:

  • create safe, inclusive and welcoming environments
  • empower young people to participate in decisions that affect them
  • actively listen to concerns raised by young people
  • respond promptly and appropriately to risks or disclosures

Definitions of harm

Child abuse and harm can include:

  • physical abuse
  • emotional or psychological abuse
  • sexual abuse or exploitation
  • neglect
  • exposure to family violence
  • bullying, harassment or coercive behaviour

Harm may be caused by adults or other young people and may occur in person or online.

Roles and responsibilities

All adults involved with Nimbin Youth must:

  • hold a current and valid Working With Children Check (WWCC)
  • comply with the Nimbin Youth Code of Conduct
  • act in ways that prioritise young people’s safety and wellbeing
  • maintain professional boundaries at all times
  • report concerns, disclosures or suspicions of harm promptly

The Nimbin Youth Coordinator (or delegated responsible person) is responsible for:

  • ensuring reports are managed appropriately
  • supporting staff and volunteers through reporting processes
  • liaising with relevant authorities where required

Mandatory reporting (NSW)

Nimbin Youth complies with NSW mandatory reporting requirements.

If there is a reasonable suspicion of risk of significant harm, the matter must be reported to:

  • NSW Child Protection Helpline (132 111), and/or
  • NSW Police (000 in emergencies)

Reports should be made as soon as practicable. Where appropriate, staff and volunteers will be supported through this process.

Responding to disclosures

If a young person discloses harm:

  • listen calmly and respectfully
  • believe the young person and thank them for telling you
  • do not promise confidentiality
  • do not investigate or ask leading questions
  • explain next steps in an age-appropriate way
  • report the disclosure according to this policy

Confidentiality and record keeping

Information about child safety concerns is handled sensitively and confidentially. Records are kept securely and shared only with those who need to know to ensure safety or meet legal obligations.

Breaches of this policy

Any breach of this policy or the Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or termination of involvement with Nimbin Youth. Serious concerns will be reported to relevant authorities.

Related documents

This policy should be read alongside:

Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly and updated to reflect best practice and legislative requirements.

Reviewed: February 2026