Statement of Commitment to Child Safety

At Cairns Regional Council, we believe that every child matters, and we are committed to protecting the safety, wellbeing and rights of all children who engage with our services, programs and facilities.

We have zero tolerance for child abuse or harm in any form.

We commit to:

• Implementing the 10 Child Safe Standards across all Council activities
• Providing safe, inclusive and supportive environments for all children
• Promoting cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
• Preventing exposure to abuse, harm or neglect
• Supporting children to have a voice and speak up
• Ensuring children know how and where to seek help

As a child safe organisation, we will:

• Educate our people to prevent, identify and respond to harm
• Respond appropriately to concerns, complaints and disclosures
• Welcome feedback from children, families and the community
• Embed child safety as everyone’s responsibility

These commitments apply to all Councillors, employees, contractors, volunteers and partners.

We value and respect all children, regardless of background or ability, and ensure our services are accessible, inclusive and culturally safe. Children’s views are considered in how we plan and deliver services, programs and spaces.

Reporting concerns
We take all child safety concerns seriously. Concerns about the conduct of a Council worker or representative, either online or in person, can be reported via our confidential email childsafe@cairns.qld.gov.au