Child Safe Commitment Statement

Regional Academies of Sport (RAS) is committed to the safety, wellbeing and empowerment of all children and young people who participate in our programs and activities.

RAS has a zero tolerance for child abuse, neglect, bullying, exploitation, or harm. We recognise our responsibility to provide a sporting environment that is safe, inclusive, supportive, and respectful, where children and young people feel valued and are able to participate, develop and thrive.

We support the rights of children and young people and are committed to promoting a child safe culture that prioritises their safety, wellbeing and participation.

RAS implements and upholds the NSW Child Safe Standards and takes all reasonable steps to safeguard children and young people involved in our organisation.

To support this commitment, RAS will:

• Provide a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all participants;
• Empower children and young people to participate in decisions that affect them and encouraging them to speak up and share any concerns;
• Ensure children and young people know who they can approach if they feel unsafe or need support;
• Recognise and respond to the diverse needs of children and young people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, young people with disability, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
• Educate and support Board members, staff, coaches, volunteers and partners to understand their responsibilities in creating and maintaining a child safe organisation;
• Implement policies, procedures and practices that help prevent, identify and respond effectively to child abuse or harm;
• Ensure all complaints, concerns, allegations and disclosures are taken seriously and responded to appropriately; and
• Encourage feedback from athletes, families and communities to continuously strengthen our child safe practices.