Safeguarding at The Y NSW

The Y NSW is committed to setting a new benchmark in safeguarding children and at-risk adults, moving beyond compliance to lead the sector in safeguarding excellence. 

Everyone who works for or on behalf of us, including employees, contractors, and volunteers, shares responsibility for creating safe, respectful, and inclusive environments for children, young people, at-risk adults, and each other. We are expected to act ethically and professionally, comply with all laws, policies, and safeguarding requirements, and prioritise physical, psychological, and emotional safety at all times. This includes maintaining appropriate boundaries, listening and responding to concerns, respecting diversity and cultural safety, managing conflicts of interest transparently, protecting confidentiality, and using technology and organisational resources responsibly. By upholding these standards and our values of Safe, Connect, and Thrive, we contribute to communities where everyone feels supported, valued, and able to thrive.

Statement of Commitment to Child Safety

The Y NSW maintains a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse and neglect. We are deeply committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and empowerment of every child in our care.

We create the safest spaces

Child safety is embedded in our culture, leadership, and everyday operations. We take proactive steps to prevent harm by identifying and managing risks, setting clear behavioural expectations, and ensuring all staff are rigorously trained, supported, and held accountable. Our recruitment and screening processes are thorough, and our physical and online environments are inclusive, child-centred, and culturally respectful.

We are better together

We believe connection, with each other and with community, is essential to a child-safe culture. We foster respectful, trusting relationships where all children feel seen, heard, and valued. We listen with care and act with integrity, recognising children’s voices in decisions that affect them. We welcome the knowledge and partnership of families, carers, and communities in creating safe and inclusive environments.

We bring our best

We strive to create spaces where every child feels safe, connected, and able to thrive. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement, guided by equity, respect, and the dignity of all children—so every child can grow, belong, and be celebrated for who they are. 

In recognising the diverse programs and services the Y NSW provides, this commitment also extends to at-risk adults in our care.

Policies and Procedures

Safeguarding Children and At-Risk Adults Policy
Safeguarding Roles and Responsibilities Procedure
Y NSW Code of Conduct
Y National Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy
Child Friendly – Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy
Teen Friendly – Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy 

Report an incident

If you see or become aware of any incident or situation that may place someone at risk at our centres, please report it as soon as possible. Click here to submit a report — you can choose to include your details or remain anonymous.

In an emergency, call 000 immediately

Available Support

If you feel unsafe now, phone 000