Safeguarding Children and Young People

The West Australian Football Commission (WAFC) is committed to promoting and protecting the safety, health, and well-being of all children and young people who participate in Australian Rules Football at any level. This commitment is upheld through activities, programs, services, and the use of facilities, fostering a culture where children and young people feel safe and welcome. Everyone who plays our great game has the right to Be Safe, Feel Safe, and Play Safe.

Section 1
Overview

The WAFC, in conjunction with the AFL, has created a suite of resources and useful links to help foster a safe and welcoming environment for all those involved in Footy.

Having any role at any grassroots footy club is important to help people enjoy their time while involved at the club and being connected within the community.

Keeping children and young people safe is the number one priority we have as a football community.

As a result, we have provided a wealth of information to help clubs navigate the complexity associated with this critical topic. Remember - any action you take is better than taking no action.

Check out the information links below for templates, posters, and fact sheets to help you educate your community about Safeguarding Children and Young People.

Section 2
Guides for Clubs 

Offering a detailed guide on various policies and guides that clubs can adopt and implement to ensure the safety of children and young people.

• Guidelines for Transporting Children & Young People
• Inclusive Clubs, Leagues & Associations
• Safe Culture and Safe People - Why Safeguarding is Important

Section 3
Templates, Guides & Posters

Providing clubs with templates, guides, and posters to facilitate the implementation of safeguarding practices.

• Child Safety at Our Club
• Child Safety - Club Checklist
• Club Risk Assessment Template

Section 4
Resources for Parents, Coaches, Players, and Umpires

Offering resources specifically designed for children, young people, parents/carers, coaches, and umpires.

Designed for 'children' (5-12), 'young people' (13-18) & their parents/carers.

• WAFC Commitment to Child Safety
• Safe Kids Code of Conduct
• Say Something
• Say Something - How to raise a concern 
• My Rights and Responsibilities as a Young Person in Footy
• Safe and Unsafe Behaviours in Footy
• What does Abuse in footv look like?
• Expectations of Adults in Fooy

Designed for Coaches, Volunteers and Umpires: 

• Expected Behaviours of Coaches & Volunteers
• Expected Behaviours of Umpires & Officials 
• Raising Safety Concerns 
• Maintaining Professional Boundaries 
• Communicating with Children & Young People
• Contact With Children & Young People
• Supervising Children & Young People 

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