Safeguarding refers to the proactive measures we take to protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It’s about creating environments—physical, emotional, and digital—where they feel safe, respected, and empowered.

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Families, carers, and community members play a vital role in helping children feel safe and supported. When we all understand what safeguarding means, we can work together to build environments where children thrive.

YWCA Canberra has a dedicated Safeguarding Coordinator responsible for leading and overseeing the integration of child-safe practices across the organisation.  This role also includes conducting investigations into any concerns raised regarding an employee’s interaction with a child.

If you have safeguarding concerns, please speak to the Service Manager, a Director, or the Safeguarding Coordinator on 0427 724 188.

YWCA Canberra has a robust recruitment and onboarding process, including police checks, Working with Vulnerable People checks, Working with Children Checks, and mandatory child protection training. 

We ensure that all employees complete a thorough onboarding and induction process with a strong focus on safeguarding principles.

Our Educators are qualified, experienced and passionate and we invest in their ongoing professional development.

YWCA Canberra is committed to continuous learning and development in child safety.  As part of this commitment, staff participate in comprehensive training that explores the Child Safe Code of Conduct.

This training equips staff with essential child safe skills, including identifying inappropriate interactions and breaches of professional boundaries, understanding child safe reporting processes and expectations, supporting children during disclosures of abuse, and fulfilling mandatory reporting responsibilities.

Building consistent, respectful, and trusting relationships that promote listening to children.

Support children to explore and research in safe and supported learning environments.

Recognising and respecting the uniqueness of every child and family, while ensuring everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Providing opportunities for children to develop emotional and physical safety.

Demonstrating honesty, kindness, and accountability in every interaction and relationship with children.

YWCA Canberra does not employ agency staff in our Early Childhood Services or School Age Care programs. Our team consists of dedicated employees who are deeply committed to the children and families we serve. 

For over four years, YWCA Canberra has enforced a strict ban on personal phones and devices across all our early learning sites. All devices onsite are owned and operated by YWCA Canberra for work purposes only.