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Eco Explorers Child Safety Policy

Keeping Children Safe in the Bush

At Eco Explorers, the safety and well-being of all children in our care is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a child-safe and child-friendly environment where all children are safe, empowered, and supported to thrive in nature.

This policy aligns with the Victorian Child Safe Standards and the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (Vic).

Our Commitment to Child Safety

  • Eco Explorers is a Child Safe Organisation committed to upholding all 11 Child Safe Standards introduced on 1 July 2022 in Victoria.
    → Learn more about the Child Safe Standards (Vic Gov)
  • We support the rights of all children to feel and be safe, regardless of age, culture, ability, gender identity or background.
  • We have zero tolerance for child abuse or neglect and are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children and children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Staff and Volunteer Responsibilities

  • All staff and volunteers:
    • Hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC)
    • Are trained in first aid, CPR, and anaphylaxis management

Bush Safety Practices

  • Risk assessments are conducted for all bushland locations and updated regularly.
  • Site checks are conducted before and during sessions for hazards such as tripping hazards, water bodies, and sharp or dangerous objects.
  • Children are taught to manage risks safely, including the safe use of tools, ropes, and fire under close supervision.
  • We maintain appropriate adult-to-child ratios at all sessions. The adult-to-child ratio often ranges from 1:6 for younger children and 1:8 for older children and can be as high as 1:2 when introducing. This higher ratio enables closer supervision, particularly during activities such as using tools, and ensures children can safely navigate the natural environment. 

Health & Emergency Preparedness

  • Each session includes:
    • First aid kits
    • Emergency contact lists
    • Communication devices (e.g. phone/radio)
  • Staff are briefed on children’s medical needs and allergy management plans.

Sessions are modified or cancelled in extreme weather or unsafe environmental conditions, in line with Bureau of Meteorology advice and warnings and the Victorian Bushfire Safety guidelines

Empowering Children

  • Children are encouraged to express their feelings, speak up, and participate in decisions affecting them.

We promote respectful interactions and inclusive group experiences.

Concerns

  • Concerns or complaints are taken seriously and responded to promptly and respectfully.

Ongoing Commitment

Eco Explorers reviews and updates our Child Safety Policy annually or as legislation changes, ensuring our practices are always aligned with current legal and ethical standards.