Reportable Conduct Scheme (Vic)

Reportable Conduct, a new legal requirement applies to VICTORIA ONLY

Victoria now has a Reportable Conduct Scheme to oversee allegations of child abuse and misconduct.

From 1 January 2018 churches will be required to respond to allegations of child abuse or other child-related misconduct made against any of their workers, volunteers and appointed leaders. The Head of Entity, in our case the General Secretary must notify the Commission for Children & Young People of any allegations within 3 days of becoming aware of them.

This means we are required to:

• have systems in place to prevent child abuse
• if child abuse is alleged, ensure allegations can be brought to the attention of appropriate persons for investigation and response
• make sure a proper investigation and response is made (if it involves criminal conduct, police will advise when to proceed)  

Allegations can be made about the conduct of people even if:

• they do not have direct contact with children
• the conduct occurred outside of their roles at the church

There are 5 types of ‘reportable conduct’:

• sexual offences committed against, with or in the presence of a child
• sexual misconduct committed against, with or in the presence of a child
• physical violence against, with or in the presence of a child
• any behaviour that causes significant emotional or psychological harm to a child
• significant neglect of a child

Remember - Reportable Conduct, a new legal requirement applies to VICTORIA ONLY