This introductory safeguarding course has been developed specifically for volunteers in faith-based organisations.
Whether you are involved in parish life, pastoral care, youth ministry, social outreach or community programs, this training will equip you with the knowledge, awareness and confidence to create safe environments for children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Rooted in the values of dignity, compassion and justice, the session helps volunteers understand their responsibilities under the Victorian Child Safe Standards, Reportable Conduct Scheme and key criminal offences relating to child safety and abuse.
What You Will Learn
Participants will gain practical skills and understanding in:
- The forms and indicators of child abuse – physical, sexual, emotional and neglect
- Recognising the signs of abuse or grooming and responding early to concerns
- Understanding grooming behaviours and appropriate responses to warning signs
- Your responsibilities under the Reportable Conduct Scheme and how to report concerns
- Maintaining professional boundaries in ministry and outreach roles
- Responding to disclosures, documenting concerns and escalating appropriately
- When and how to refer families or individuals to services such as The Orange Door
- Upholding a child-safe culture within faith and community environments
Who Should Attend
This course is ideal for volunteers and lay members involved in ministry, outreach or community service, including:
- Parish ministries (readers, altar servers, children’s liturgy, youth groups)
- Pastoral care and outreach (visiting the sick, aged care or hospital ministry)
- Faith-based social enterprises, food relief or community programs
- Volunteers supporting faith-based agencies or religious institutes
Why Choose This Training
- Developed specifically for volunteers serving in faith-based contexts
- Reinforces both moral and legal responsibilities to protect children and vulnerable people
- Supports compliance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards and Crimes Act 1958 (Vic)
- Uses real-life examples to make legal obligations accessible and practical
- Empowers volunteers to act with care, clarity and confidence when concerns arise
- Promotes a safeguarding culture grounded in empathy, accountability and faith values
