RESPONDING TO SUSPECTED AND REPORTED CHILD ABUSE PROCEDURE
1. RATIONALE This procedure supports the Child Safety Policy outlining the actions required of all Staff of the School in relation to responding to suspected child abuse. All Staff are to conduct themselves in an ethical and professional manner consistent with their role as School representatives, be positive role models for students, and act to support the safety and wellbeing of those in their care. The School is committed to student safety and to providing an environment in which students feel safe, happy and empowered. This Procedure should be read in conjunction with the School’s Mandatory Reporting Policy 2. DEFINITIONS Word/s
Definition
Mandatory Reporting
In accordance with the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (Vic), “Mandatory Reporters” must report to Child Protection if they form a reasonable belief that a child is in need of protection from physical injury or sexual abuse. Mandatory Reporters include: • Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) registered teachers, including Headmaster • Early childhood workers • Staff who have been granted permission to teach by the VIT • Registered doctors and nurses • Registered psychologists • School counsellors, which means a person who works (other than on a voluntary basis) to provide direct support to school students • People in religious ministry The Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (Vic) is the legislative basis for the Reportable Conduct Scheme, which requires the Headmaster to: • have in place systems to prevent child abuse, and in case child abuse occurs, to ensure allegations can be brought to the attention of appropriate persons for investigation and response • ensure that the Commission is notified of a reportable allegation and given updates on the organisation’s response to that allegation • report to Victoria Police as soon as they become aware that a reportable allegation may involve criminal conduct
Reportable Conduct Scheme
Failure to Disclose
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Under section 327 of the Crimes Act, any person (including any staff member) of or over the age of 18 years who forms a reasonable belief that a sexual offence has been committed in Victoria by an adult against a child under 16 years of age must disclose that information to police, as soon as it is practicable to do so. Failure to disclose the information to police is a criminal offence, except in limited circumstances such as where the information has already been reported to DHHS Child Protection. The offence applies to all adults in Victoria, not just professionals who work with children.
Deputy Head 4 Responding to Suspected and Reported Child Abuse STW-PRC-001
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June 2022 Nov 2023 Nov 2024 1 of 13