Responding to Suspected Child Abuse Policy
1. Policy Statement
1.1 Camp Quality is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people who access our programs, services and events.
1.2 Camp Quality recognises that all children and young people have the right to develop and reach their potential in supportive and safe environments.
1.3 Camp Quality considers any form of child or young person abuse (including emotional, physical, sexual abuse, neglect or exposure to family violence) as intolerable under any circumstances. If proven, such actions constitute gross and wilful misconduct (a serious breach of Camp Quality’s policies and procedures) which will result in termination of employment and / or prosecution. (See Annexure 1 for definitions of the forms of child abuse).
1.4 Camp Quality has a legal and moral responsibility to protect children and young people from harm and to ensure any incidents of suspected child abuse are promptly and appropriately reported and dealt with through the relevant channels / authorities.
1.5 All children and young people within our organisation are informed of our policy and provided with the support and mechanisms to feel empowered to speak up if they feel unsafe, hear something, or see something that does not feel right. Our organisation upholds a child’s rights to be heard, protected and supported.
1.6 Camp Quality promotes equity and respects diversity by:
1.6.1 actively anticipating children’s diverse circumstances and responding effectively to those with additional vulnerabilities;
1.6.2 giving all children access to information, support, and complaints processes; and
1.6.3 paying particular attention to the needs of:
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children;
• children with a disability;
• children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds;
• lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) children; and
• children unable to live at home.
1.7 Camp Quality upholds a family’s right to have their concern resolved and done so in a culturally respectful and safe way.
2. Definitions (see also Annexure 1)
- Child: A person who is under the age of 12, 16 or 18 years as defined by relevant State or Territory legislation.
- Young Person: A person who is aged above 12 or 16 years but who is under the age of 18 years as defined by relevant State or Territory legislate.
- Parent/Guardian and family members over 18 years: Means a family member or legal guardian directly supporting a Camp Quality registered child or young person impacted by cancer.
- Involved Persons: Individuals who are not volunteers and employees delivering or attending Camp Quality services and programs.
- Mandatory Reporter: Individuals from assigned professions who are mandated / legislatively required to report certain types of child abuse or suspected child abuse directly to the government authorities; examples of these professions include teachers, police and nurses.
- Child abuse: Child abuse and neglect refers to any non-accidental behaviour by parents, caregivers, other adults or older adolescents that is outside the norms of conduct and entails a substantial risk of causing physical or emotional harm to a child or young person. Child abuse can be categorised as physical, sexual or, emotional abuse, neglect or exposure to family violence (Child Family Community Australia). (See Annexure 1 for a breakdown of forms of child abuse.)
3. Responsibilities
3.1 All Camp Quality personnel have a duty of care, and at times a legal obligation, to ensure ‘reasonable steps’ are taken to prevent harm to children and young people.
3.2 All personnel are responsible for supporting a transparent culture, whereby any actions by personnel that go against Camp Quality’s Employee and Volunteer Code of Conduct and Ethical Behaviour, and Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy, however minor, are reported and documented.
3.3 Where personnel fail to report instances, allegations, disclosures or concerns in relation to suspected abuse or neglect of a child or young person (by personnel within Camp Quality or by others) such failure is viewed as a serious matter and, depending on the circumstances, may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal.
3.4 Failure to report incidents of abuse, neglect or harm of a child or young person may be deemed a criminal offence under State/Territory laws.
3.5 For details of all responsibilities refer to the Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy.
4. Policy, Practice and Procedure
4.1 Reasonable Responding to Suspected Child Abuse
4.1.1 Any personnel with a reasonable belief or grounds to suspect a child is at risk of harm (whether the suspected perpetrator is within or external to Camp Quality) they are required to immediately report this to Camp Quality’s Safety and Child Protection Hotline (CQ SAFE) (1800 CQ SAFE – 1800 277 233) following established guidelines.
4.1.2 Where the personnel is a Mandatory Reporter, they are also legally required to make a report to the relevant government agency in their jurisdiction, as outlined in the Suspected Child Abuse Reporting Flow Chart (see Annexure 3).
4.1.3 If a child or young person is at imminent risk of harm or in immediate danger, an employee, volunteer, parent or involved person is required to report the situation directly to Police.
4.1.4 To ensure the safety and welfare of all parties, Camp Quality also requires that the Child Protection Officer (CPO) is notified as soon as possible through the CQ SAFE process.
4.2 Grounds to report:
4.2.1 If a child or young person discloses that they have been abused.
4.2.2 If someone else discloses that they know or believe a child/young person has been abused.
4.2.3 There are physical signs of abuse.
4.2.4 A child or young person displays behaviours that are of a sexual or violent nature; either verbal or physical, with no satisfactory explanation.
4.3 Responding to a Disclosure:
4.3.1 If a child discloses child abuse:
• remain calm and look at the child or young person directly;
• listen attentively, with support and do not dispute;
• clarify the basic details, without seeking detailed information
• be honest and don’t promise to keep it a secret; advise them you will need to tell someone else;
• assure the child or young person you accept and believe what they told you. Use statements like, “I believe you,” “thank you for telling me,” “it’s not your fault,” or “I will help you”;
• don’t push for information, ask intrusive or leading questions or too many questions which may result in the child feeling uncomfortable, frightened, embarrassed or overwhelmed;
• remember it is not your responsibility to determine the truth or investigate the abuse;
• do not make suggestions, statements or ask questions that may define or distort the child’s experience e.g., “She has been hitting you for a really long time, hasn’t she?”;
• be aware that the child or young person may have been bribed or threatened not to tell anyone and may be fearful of speaking out;
• be clear that even though they may feel as though they have broken a spoken or unspoken rule about “telling”, they are not to blame for the abuse;
• let the child know what you are going to do next, be clear in your explanation, and explain that other people may need to be told, in order to stop what is happening;
• do not make promises or suggestions that are unrealistic such as “You can come and live with me.” Or “I will make sure everything is fixed”;
• reassure the child that they were right to tell you and show acceptance and that action will be taken in response to the allegation; and
• ensure all information is kept confidential, only those people who must know should be informed of the disclosure.
4.3.2 If it is a matter of harmful sexual behaviour (peer on peer), Camp Quality will consider how to provide support to both parties to learn and understand:
• the rules about sexual touch and behaviour
• where it is appropriate to engage in sexual activity;
• when sexual activity is inappropriate; and
• informed consent.
4.4 Managing an allegation
4.4.1 Interim and immediate action will be taken to ensure the safety of the child, or children in danger, or perceived to be in danger.
4.4.2 The allegation is reported immediately to the CPO in line with Camp Quality’s Safety Protocols, CQ SAFE and a safeguarding incident is entered into the CQ Safe online incident reporting system.
4.4.3 When reporting an allegation:
• do not assess the validity of the allegations or concerns;
• do not disregard factors such as the authority or position of the persons involved;
• personal feelings and pre-existing views about the good character, or otherwise, of any person involved, or under investigation should not be considered or recorded on the report;
• record the allegation noting what was said, where possible, noting the exact words used by the person making the allegation with quotes and not abbreviations, or short form language;
• follow the FACTS process:
F – Facts: Only describe what you saw, heard, smelt, etc., (not your thoughts, opinions or emotions)
A – Accurate: By stepping through the sequence of events, explain how it started, what you saw, what you did, who was there, and what others did. (chronological)
C – Confirmation: What did anyone involved in the incident say/do/recount?
T – The Next Steps: What needs to happen next, who needs to be informed, and what checks need to take place?
S – Supporting evidence: Any evidence that supports or assists to explain the situation. This could include photos, witness statements, and reports. Record observations, including any signs of behavioural or physical abuse; and date and sign all notes and observations.
4.4.4 If the allegation is one of serious and wilful misconduct against an employee, the employee may be stood down from their role, pending investigation. During any period of stand down, the terms of the employee’s employment contract continue to operate, except for the right to attend work to undertake work duties.
4.4.5 If the allegation is one of serious and wilful misconduct against a volunteer, the volunteer will be suspended from their role, pending investigation.
4.4.6 The CPO will report the allegation, (in collaboration with the reporter) to the relevant State/Territory child protection authority, police department and the Australian Childhood Foundation (ACF) (see Annexure 3).
4.4.7 The person making the report may also seek advice and/or report the allegation to the relevant State/Territory child protection authority or police department.
4.4.8 The CPO will immediately notify the CEO and the General Manager – People and Culture.
4.4.9 Irrespective of the outcome of a State/Territory child protection authority or police department investigation, if an internal investigation determines a breach of policy has occurred, for example, non-reporting of child safety disclosure, disciplinary action may be taken appropriate to the situation, including dismissal.
4.5Information gathering (completed by the CPO)
4.5.1 Review the information provided, ensuring sufficient and relevant information is obtained to assist in decision making, including details of the child or young person, the indicators of harm, the child’s whereabouts and family information.
4.5.2 Ensure witness interviews are adequately recorded and interview records are signed and dated.
4.5.3 In consultation with the CEO, review initial assessment and take action to address concerns, including contacting and collaborating with appropriate family support, community health and government services and relevant child protection authorities and/or police if required.
4.6 Procedural fairness
4.6.1 After the initial stage of the investigation, the allegation(s) will be put to the employee/volunteer during a fact-finding interview with the Head of Programs or Team Leader, the CPO and General Manager – People and Culture.
4.6.2 The employee/volunteer has the right to have an observer / support person of their choice at the interview. The observer / support person is not there to advocate for the employee / volunteer who is the subject of the investigation.
4.6.3 The employee/volunteer will have an opportunity to respond to the allegation(s) during the interview and / or in a written submission.
4.6.4 All proceedings are subject to strict confidentiality and each party must maintain that confidentiality.
4.7 Finding
4.7.1 Following the fact-finding interviews and a reasonable period of deliberation, Camp Quality will come to a finding about the allegation(s).
4.7.2 The rationale for the finding will be clearly documented.
4.7.3 The panel making the decision will be confirmed by at least two of the following: the Chief Executive Officer, the General Manager – People and Culture and the Risk, Safety and Compliance Manager.
4.7.4 A decision about what action to take will be made. This may include disciplinary action, training or amendments to policy or procedures.
4.8 Confidentiality
4.8.1 As per Camp Quality’s Privacy Policy, personal information relating to suspected child abuse is considered confidential and Camp Quality will only inform third parties as required by law, the relevant State/Territory child protection authority and the Police department.
4.8.2 Incident reports of suspected child abuse made to the Camp Quality Board and the ACF will include:
• whether the allegation was made against an employee or volunteer (no names will be provided);
• a summary of the incident; and
• the status/outcome, including any disciplinary action taken.
4.9 Documentation
4.9.1 Suspected Child Abuse Reports and related investigations/documentation will be stored securely and with only the CPO and General Manager People and Culture to have access.
4.10 Emotional Support
4.10.1 Camp Quality will offer emotional support for any employee or volunteer through the 24- hour Employee Assistance counselling line via Access EAP.
4.10.2 Other involved parties will be given the contact details of external counselling services they can access.
4.10.3 Safety for under-represented community groups will be considered: this includes any specific support for those from an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Queer (LGBTQ) persons, culturally and linguistically diverse persons, persons with a disability and those unable to live at home.
4.11 Access to Policy
4.11.1 The Board, employees and volunteers are provided with all Safeguarding Children and Young People related policies on commencement of their role.
4.11.2 Parents are provided with the relevant Safeguarding Children and Young People information on commencement with Camp Quality, including the Family Code of Conduct.
4.11.3 All involved parties, including parents can request this policy, along with other Safeguarding Children and Young People related policies at any time through the Child Protection Officers.
4.11.4 This policy is available on the Camp Quality’s website.
Updated June 2025
Annexure 1
Definitions
Child abuse and neglect refers to any non-accidental behaviour by parents, caregivers, other adults or older adolescents that is outside the norms of conduct and entails a substantial risk of causing physical or emotional harm to a child or young person. Child abuse can be categorised as physical, sexual, emotional, neglect and exposure to family violence. (definitions below are taken from Child Family Community Australia).
Physical abuse occurs when a person subjects a child or young person to non-accidental physically aggressive acts. The abuser may inflict an injury intentionally or inadvertently as a result of physical punishment or the aggressive treatment of a child. Physically abusive behaviour includes (but is not limited to) shoving, hitting, slapping, shaking, throwing, punching, biting, burning, excessive and physically harmful over training, and kicking. It also includes giving children harmful substances such as drugs, alcohol or poison. Certain types of punishment, whilst not causing injury can also be considered physical abuse if they place a child are risk of being hurt.
Sexual abuse occurs when an adult or a person of authority (e.g. older) involves a child or young person in any sexual activity. Perpetrators of sexual abuse take advantage of their power, authority or position over the child or young person for their own benefit. It can include making sexual comments to a child, engaging children to participate in sexual conversations over the internet or on social media, kissing, touching a child’s genitals or breasts, oral sex or intercourse with a child. Encouraging a child to view pornographic magazines, websites and videos is also sexual abuse. Engaging children to participate in sexual conversations over the internet is also considered sexual abuse.
Emotional or psychological abuse occurs when a child or young person does not receive the love, affection or attention they need for healthy emotional, psychological and social development. Such abuse may involve repeated rejection or threats. Constant criticism, teasing, ignoring, threatening, yelling, scapegoating, ridicule and rejection or continual coldness are all examples of emotional abuse. These behaviours continue to an extent that results in significant damage to the child or young person’s physical, intellectual or emotional wellbeing and development.
Exposure to family violence occurs when a child or a young person is forced to live with violence between adults in their home. It is harmful to children and young people. It can include witnessing violence or the consequences of violence. Family violence is defined as violence between members of a family or extended family or those fulfilling the role of family in a child or young person’s life. Exposure to family violence places children and young people at increased risk of physical injury and harm and has a significant impact on their wellbeing and development.
Grooming is a term used to describe what happens when a perpetrator of abuse builds a relationship with a child with a view to abusing them at some stage. There is no set pattern in relation to the grooming of children. For some perpetrators, there will be a lengthy period of time before the abuse begins. The child may be given special attention and, what starts as an apparently normal display of affection, such as cuddling, can develop into sexual touching or masturbation and then into more serious sexual behaviour. Other perpetrators may draw a child in and abuse them relatively quickly. Some abusers do not groom children but abuse them without forming a relationship at all.
Harm to a child, is any detrimental effect of a significant nature on the child’s physical, psychological or emotional wellbeing. It is immaterial how the harm is caused. Harm can be caused by:
- physical, psychological or emotional abuse or neglect;
- sexual abuse or exploitation; and
- a single act, omission or circumstance; and a series or combination of acts, omissions or circumstances.
Bullying involves the inappropriate use of power by one or more persons over another less powerful person or group and is generally an act that is repeated over time. Bullying has been described by researchers as taking many forms which are often interrelated and include:
- Verbal (name calling, put downs, threats);
- Physical (hitting, punching, kicking, scratching, tripping, spitting);
- Social (ignoring, excluding, ostracising, alienating); and/or Psychological (spreading rumours, stalking, dirty looks, hiding or damaging possessions).
Neglect occurs when there is persistent failure or deliberate denial to provide the child with the necessities of life. Such neglect includes the failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, adequate supervision, clean water, medical attention or supervision to the extent that the child’s health and development is, or is likely to be, significantly harmed. Categories of neglect include physical neglect, medical neglect, abandonment or desertion, emotional neglect and educational neglect. The issue of neglect must be considered within the context of resources reasonably available.
Danger to self / self-harm also known as self-injury is defined as the intentional, direct injuring of body tissue done without the intent to commit suicide. Self-harm can also be used to describe a child/young person demonstrating suicidal behaviours. Danger to self and or others also extends to include a child/young person threatening to harm themselves or threatening to harm someone else.
Annexure 2
State/Territory Reporting Contact Details
ACT
- Child and Youth Protection Services
- General Public: 1300 556 729 (24 hours)
- Mandatory Reporters: 1300 556 728 (24 hours)
NSW
- Department of Family & Community Services
- Child Protection Hotline: 132 111 (24 hours)
NT
- Territory Families
- Child Abuse Hotline: 1800 700 250 (24 hours)
QLD
- Dept of Child Safety, Youth and Women
- Brisbane: 1300 682 254
- Central Queensland: 1300 703 762
- Far North Queensland: 1300 684 062
- Ipswich: 1800 316 855
- North Queensland: 1300 706 147
- South East: 1300 679 849
- South West (Darling Downs): 1300 683 390
- After Hours: 1800 177 135
SA
- Department of Child Protection
- Child Abuse Report Line: 13 14 78 (24 hours)
Tasmania
- Department of Communities
- Child Safety Service: 1800 000 123 (24 hours)
Victoria
- Department of Health and Human Services
- North Division Intake: 1300 664 977
- South Division Intake: 1300 655 795
- East Division Intake: 1300 360 391
- West Division Intake – Regional: 1800 075 599
- West Division Intake – Metro: 1300 664 977
- After Hours: 13 12 78
WA
- Department of Communities, Child Protection and Family Support
- Central Intake Team: 1800 273 889
- After Hours: 18800 199 008
Annexure 3
Legal Reporting Obligations Summary – legal reporting requirements that apply to Camp Quality
Reporting Legislation and Summary
Mandatory Reporting
- VIC – Children, Youth & Families Act 2005 (Vic) ss 182(1), 184 & 162(c)-(d) Crimes Act 1958 (Vic)s 327
- TAS – Children, Young Persons and their Families Act 1997 (Tas) ss 3, 4 &14
- QLD – Child Protection Act 1999 (Qld) pt1AA, ss 13E&13F
- NT – Care & Protection of Children Act 2007 (NT) ss 15, 16 & 26
- NSW – Children & Young Persons (Care & Protection) Act 1998 (NSW) ss 23 & 27
- ACT – Children & Young People Act 2008 (ACT) s 356
- SA – Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017 (SA) Chapter 5 s 30-s 31
- WA – Children and Community Services Act 2004 (WA)Division 9A, s 124A to s 124H,
Relevant CQ People who must comply
Child Protection Officers
All jurisdictions in Australia have child abuse mandatory reporting legislation.
All jurisdictions require a reasonable belief or suspicion that a child is at risk of harm to trigger a mandatory report.
Reportable Conduct
- NSW – NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian
- VIC – Children Legislation Amendment (Reportable Conduct) Act 2017 (Vic)
- ACT – Reportable Conduct and Information Sharing Legislation Amendment Act 2016 (ACT)
All three Reportable Conduct Scheme legislations require employment-related child protection matters to be reported including employed volunteers and unpaid staff members.
Relevant CQ People who must comply
Camp Quality and its services/personnel in NSW, VIC and ACT
Failure to Protect and Failure to Disclose
VIC, TAS, QLD, NSW & ACT,
In response to recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, adults who reasonably believe that a sexual offence has been committed against a child, must make a report to police. Failure to make a report is an offence.
Relevant CQ People who must comply
All Camp Quality staff and volunteers in VIC, TAS, QLD, NSW & ACT
Annexure 4
Suspected Child Abuse Reporting Flowchart
