CCYP | RELEASING | New Resource for Faith Communities and Religious Organisations on the Reportable Conduct Scheme

[Edited extract from public address]

From 1 January 2018, religious and faith-based organisations have been required to comply with the Reportable Conduct Scheme. 

This means these organisations must respond to allegations of reportable conduct made against their workers and volunteers by investigating those allegations and reporting to the Commission for Children and Young People.

Additionally, from 1 January 2017, religious organisations that provide services for children have been required to comply with the Child Safe Standards. These standards aim to drive cultural change in organisations so that protecting children from abuse is embedded in everyday thinking and practice. The standards are compulsory but not prescriptive. This allows religious organisations some flexibility in how they implement the standards.

The Commission for Children and Young People, in collaboration with the Victorian Council of Churches and Faith Communities Council of Victoria, has produced a short, easy to follow booklet to familiarise faith communities and religious organisations with their obligations under the Reportable Conduct Scheme.

A guide for Faith Communities on the Reportable Conduct Scheme
This booklet can be used as a resource by any religious organisations and/or faith-based community. To download a copy go to:
https://ccyp.vic.gov.au/child-safety/resources/guides-and-information-sheets/

To register for free information sessions offered by the Commission for Children and Young People on Child Safe Standards and the Reportable Conduct Scheme go to:
https://ccyp.vic.gov.au/child-safety/resources/information-sessions/

Support for organisations
There are a range of other resources available on the Commission's website:

• Information sheets about the Reportable Conduct Scheme
• Frequently asked questions
• A guide for Child Safe Standards

MORE:
Commission for Children and Young People
Address: Level 20, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne Vic 3000
Tel: 03 8601 5281 (during business hours)
Email: contact@ccyp.vic.gov.au
Website: www.ccyp.vic.gov.au