Childsafe

Keeping every student safe to play

School Sport Victoria (SSV) is a childsafe organisation and part of the Victorian Government's Department of Education. Everything we do is guided by a commitment to the safety, participation and empowerment of every child in school sport.

Child safety is everyone's responsibility — and we've made it as clear and accessible as possible for everyone involved in SSV activities.

Our child safety commitments

SSV's approach to child safety covers everyone involved in school sport — from SSV Advisory Committee members, staff, volunteers and contractors, to teachers, coaches, sporting officials, parents, spectators and students themselves.

Here's what underpins everything we do:

Department of Education Childsafe and Wellbeing Policy Our child safety approach is grounded in the Department of Education's Childsafe and Wellbeing Policy. This is the foundation for everything SSV does to protect students.

Child Safety Reporting and Responding Procedures Clear processes for identifying, responding to and reporting suspected child abuse. Because identifying the safety of children is everyone's responsibility, this procedure outlines exactly what to do — and encourages children and adults alike to speak up. Nothing in this procedure prevents anyone from reporting to relevant authorities if they believe a child is at risk.

SSV Childsafe Code of Conduct Sets out the expected behaviour of all adults and young people involved with SSV. The Codes of Conduct — Child Safety aim to protect children and reduce any opportunities for harm or abuse. All SSV events are conducted under this Code, and any breaches are handled under the relevant Department policies.

Behaviour and participation at SSV events

Codes of Conduct — SSV Events School sport should be an enjoyable, positive and educative experience — free from fear and intimidation. This Code covers the expected behaviour of everyone at SSV competitions and activities, including students, team officials, parents, spectators and match officials. It should be read alongside the SSV Childsafe Code of Conduct.

Participant Behaviour Policy Convenors, coordinators, SSV staff and match officials (including judges and referees) all have a role to play in maximising positive behaviour at SSV competitions. This policy outlines exactly what's required.

Safe Participation The Department of Education has a duty of care for all students. Through a range of policies, SSV works to ensure maximum participation and support the mental and physical health of every student at SSV events.

Supporting all students to participate

SSV is committed to making school sport safe and accessible for every student. That includes ensuring students of all backgrounds, identities and abilities can take part with confidence and respect.

Trans and Gender Diverse Participation Guidance All Victorian schools share a commitment to provide a positive, supportive and respectful environment for students. This guidance helps schools support students who are trans or gender diverse to participate in SSV sporting activities. It aligns with the Department of Education Childsafe Standards and should be read alongside the Department's LGBTIQA+ Student Support Policy.

Get in touch

Have a question about child safety at SSV? We're here to help.

• Phone: (03) 9084 9001
• Email: school.sport.victoria@education.vic.gov.au