The protection of the most vulnerable in our community - children, elderly and people with disability - is a responsibility of utmost importance at both a societal and organisational level. A number of Royal Commissions over the last decade have shaped and refocused the expectations of organisations and the resources and regimes that need to be in place to minimise the risk of harm.
We assist a range of organisations to create a safe culture and environment for vulnerable individuals and to ensure they have the right policies and procedures in place to maintain this into the future. As a result of decades of experience with educational institutions, aged care and disability service providers, religious institutions, community-based organisations and not-for-profits, as well as their insurers, to conduct investigations and manage claims, we have gained first hand understanding of best practice risk management and safeguarding practices.
Child safety is a particular focus. We take a two-pronged approach to child safety through providing proactive advice and strategies to foster cultures that encompass the development of the whole child, and assisting in responding to child safety concerns.
Our specialist teams in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne are familiar with the relevant legislation, regulations and case law as it applies in each jurisdiction across Australia. We keep abreast of the fast-developing changes to legislation, both civil and criminal, consequent upon the Royal Commission's recommendations.
HOW WE CAN HELP
Our expert team provides support and advice in relation to:
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crisis management when child safety issues arise
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bullying and cyber bullying of students
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child protection issues, mandatory reporting obligations and reportable conduct obligations, and liaising with the regulatory bodies in each state
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strategic advice regarding maintenance of a child safe culture within institutions
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drafting policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the Child Safe Standards
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civil claims (litigated and unlitigated) against educational institutions, religious organisations and not-for-profit organisations
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liaising with police regarding the conduct of investigations and criminal proceedings to protect the position of the institutions and their insurers
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liaising with media consultants, religious and/or educational institutions and insurers to issue media releases and announcements and managing media attention generally to protect the integrity of the legal process and the reputation of all stakeholders
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inquests, coronial inquiries and royal commissions
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compliance with internal processes
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training for staff and volunteers