June 5, 2025
Why Local Councils & Sporting Bodies Must Meet Child Safe Standards

Child Safeguard’s Managing Director, Marco Blanco, appeared on ABC News to highlight the urgent need for local government and sporting organisations to fully implement and comply with the Child Safe Standards.

In the interview with Lorna Dunkley, Marco called on State and Territory governments to enforce regulatory compliance for all child-related organisations, ensuring consistent child safety practices across Australia.

“Children’s safety must be non-negotiable,” said Marco.

“Without clear, enforced standards, organisations risk falling short of their duty to protect.”

The Importance of Stronger Child Safety Regulation

This national conversation was sparked by Tennis NSW’s recent decision to join the National Redress Scheme and their appeal to the Federal Government to close a legislative gap in Working With Children Checks (WWCCs).

While WWCCs are a critical tool, Marco stressed that they alone do not create a child-safe organisation. Instead, a broader, more proactive framework is needed.

Why the Child Safe Standards Matter

The Child Safe Standards are an evidence-based framework designed to help organisations create safer environments for children and young people. They go beyond background checks to focus on:

  • Organisational culture and leadership

  • Staff training and behaviour

  • Reporting and risk management

  • Ongoing compliance and review

Marco emphasised that all child-facing organisations—including councils, sporting clubs, and volunteer bodies—must implement these standards as a baseline for child safety.

Key Takeaway for Organisations

If your organisation works with children, relying solely on Working With Children Checks is no longer enough. You must:

  • Understand your legal obligations

  • Implement the full set of Child Safe Standards

  • Regularly review and strengthen your child safety policies

Watch the Interview

🎥 View Marco’s full ABC News segment

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Frequently Asked
Questions

What are the Child Safe Standards in Australia?

The Child Safe Standards are a set of principles designed to help organisations create safer environments for children. They are legally required in several Australian states and apply to all organisations that work with or provide services to children and young people.

Complying with child safety laws helps protect children from harm, ensures legal accountability, and reduces reputational and operational risks. It also demonstrates an organisation’s commitment to creating a safe and trusted environment.

Any organisation that works with children – including schools, sporting clubs, religious groups, charities, and local councils – must meet child safeguarding requirements, including implementing the Child Safe Standards and Working With Children Checks.

Organisations can strengthen child safety by conducting risk audits, developing clear policies, providing staff training, and embedding the Child Safe Standards into everyday operations. Partnering with experts like Child Safeguard ensures these practices are effective and compliant.

Have peace of mind, today.

Start taking action now to safeguard your organisation when working with children with a tailored plan.