Child Safe Statement of Commitment

At Lifeline Darling Downs & South West Queensland Ltd (LDDSWQL), we are committed to creating safe, inclusive and empowering environments where children and young people are respected, protected and supported to thrive. 

We believe that every child and young person has the right to feel safe, be heard and be treated with dignity and respect. Their safety, wellbeing and best interests are central to our decision-making, service delivery, and organisational culture. 

We have zero tolerance for child abuse, neglect, exploitation, grooming, harassment or any behaviour that places a child or young person at risk of harm. 

As an organisation we are committed to: 

• Upholding the rights of all children and young people to be safe, valued and respected by listening to and believing them, and reporting any concerns. 
• Responding promptly, fairly and appropriately to all child safety concerns and allegations. 
• Listening to children and young people and ensuring their voices inform the services and supports we provide. 
• Creating culturally safe, inclusive and welcoming environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, children from diverse cultural backgrounds, children with disability, children who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and children who may be vulnerable or at increased risk.
• Ensuring all team members - including staff, volunteers, students and Board Directors understand their responsibilities in keeping children safe. 
• Maintaining robust recruitment, screening, training and supervision practices to support a child safe workforce. 
• Providing clear and accessible ways for children, young people, families, team members and community members to raise concerns or make complaints. 
• Continuously reviewing and strengthening our child safe systems, practices and culture. 

Child safety is everyone's responsibility. We expect every person who represents Lifeline Darling Downs & South West QLD to actively contribute to an environment where children and young people feel safe, included, supported and empowered. 

Our commitment is guided by the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and reflects our organisational Values of Relationships, Inclusion, Social Justice, Compassion and Connection. 

Together, we are committed to ensuring that every child and young person who engages with Lifeline Darling Downs & South West QLD experiences a safe environment where they are respected, heard and supported.  

Child and Youth Risk Management Framework

Reportable Conduct Scheme

Lifeline Darling Downs & South West QLD is subject to Queensland's Reportable Conduct Scheme. This means any concerns about child abuse or harm caused by a worker or volunteer will be investigated and reported to the Queensland Family and Child Commission, as the law requires. 

We take our responsibilities under this scheme very seriously. If you have a concern, report it to us immediately. 

• Notify us about a reportable conduct matter here 
• All allegations are managed in a timely, child-centred and procedurally fair manner, and in accordance with our obligations under the Reportable Conduct Scheme and our Child and Youth Risk Management Framework. 
• Find out more about the Reportable Conduct Scheme (https://www.qfcc.qld.gov.au/childsafe/reportable-conduct-scheme)

You can also raise a concern with the Queensland Family and Child Commission (https://www.qfcc.qld.gov.au/report-concern)