Child Safe Policy

Purpose. This policy commits Studio Aurora to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people who take part in its performances, screen productions, workshops and public programs, in line with the Child Safe Standards (Victoria).

1.Commitment

Studio Aurora has zero tolerance for child abuse and will act on any concern about the safety of a child. Children and young people who perform, appear on screen, attend workshops or visit the gallery and theatre have the right to feel safe, be heard and be respected. This policy applies to all staff, freelancers, performers, volunteers and hirers.

2.Working with Children Checks

Every person who works with, supervises or has regular contact with children in any Studio Aurora activity must hold a current Working with Children Check before their first day and must provide the details to the Operations and Finance Manager for the register. A person whose check is refused, suspended or expired must not work with children.

3.Safe practice in productions and workshops

A child on set, on stage or in a workshop must be supervised by a nominated child safe supervisor at all times, with a parent or guardian present or contactable as agreed in the engagement. Costume changes, make-up and physical direction must be conducted in line with the written plan agreed with the guardian. Children will not be photographed or filmed without written consent from a guardian and the child's own agreement.

• Nominated supervisor for every activity
• Two adults present, never one adult alone with a child
• Guardian consent for images and content
• Working hours and breaks appropriate to age
• Physical direction planned and agreed in advance

4.Reporting concerns

Any staff member, freelancer or volunteer who sees or suspects abuse, grooming or inappropriate conduct must report it to the Managing Director or the Child Safety Officer immediately. Where a child is in immediate danger, police must be called first. Reports will be recorded, acted on and, where required by law, reported to the relevant authorities.

5.Code of conduct

Adults working with children must use respectful language, avoid physical contact except where necessary and agreed for the work, never communicate privately with a child by phone or social media, and never give gifts or favours. Breaches will be treated as serious misconduct.

6.Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and after any incident. The Child Safety Officer will report to the board twice a year on the register, training and any concerns raised.