Commitment to Child Safety
Posity is committed to creating and maintaining a child-safe organisation where the safety, wellbeing, and dignity of children and young people are our highest priorities.
We have zero tolerance for child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. All children who engage with our services have the right to feel safe, respected, and heard.
We actively work to promote a culture where children, families, and staff feel comfortable raising concerns about safety or wellbeing.
Our Child-Safe Culture
Posity promotes child safety by:
- placing the best interests of children and young people at the centre of our work
- creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment
- encouraging children and families to share their views and concerns
- maintaining professional boundaries and ethical practice
- responding promptly and appropriately to concerns about a child’s safety
- supporting staff to understand and fulfil their safeguarding responsibilities
All staff share responsibility for maintaining a safe and respectful environment for children and families.
Cultural Safety and Inclusion
Posity is committed to providing culturally safe and inclusive services.
We recognise and respect the cultural identities, strengths, and experiences of all children and families, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and communities.
We aim to ensure our services are:
- respectful of cultural identity
- inclusive of diverse backgrounds and experiences
- responsive to the needs of children and families from different communities
Staff Responsibilities
All Posity staff, including occupational therapists, allied health assistants, administrative staff, and management, are expected to:
- uphold professional and ethical standards when working with children and families
- recognise potential indicators of harm or risk to a child’s safety
- take appropriate action when concerns arise
- maintain professional boundaries and respectful relationships with children and families
Staff receive training and support to understand their responsibilities in safeguarding children and responding to concerns.
Responding to Concerns About a Child’s Safety
If a staff member becomes concerned about the safety or wellbeing of a child or young person, Posity will take appropriate steps to ensure the child’s safety.
This may include:
- seeking guidance from relevant child and family support services
- consulting with appropriate authorities where required
- working collaboratively with families and support networks where it is safe and appropriate to do so
Our goal is always to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of the child while supporting families wherever possible.
Legislation and Professional Standards
Posity’s child safety practices align with relevant legislation, professional standards, and national frameworks, including:
Victorian legislation
- Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (Vic)
- Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (Vic)
- Crimes Act 1958 (Vic)
National frameworks
- National Principles for Child Safe Organisations
- Victorian Child Safe Standards
Professional standards
- Occupational Therapy Australia Code of Ethics
- AHPRA Code of Conduct
Raising a Concern
Posity encourages anyone who has concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child to speak up.
Concerns can be raised by:
- parents or carers
- children and young people
- staff members
- members of the community
All concerns will be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.
Policy Review
This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it reflects current legislation, professional standards, and best practice in child safeguarding.
If you have concerns about the safety of a child, please contact Posity directly or seek support from appropriate child protection services in your state.