07 Oct 2025
On September 23, 2025, the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly delivered a successful, Child Safety Workshop at the Centre for Participation, Horsham, equipping clubs and volunteers with practical tools to meet the Victorian Child Safe Standards, helping local clubs strengthen their commitment to creating safe and welcoming sporting environments.
The session was facilitated by WRSA with valuable support from sport development officers Rebecca McIntyre (Basketball Victoria) and Kate-lyn Perkin (Tennis Victoria), who contributed state-level insights.
A total of 14 members and volunteers attended, representing sports including basketball, tennis, rowing, croquet, cricket, speedway motorsport and gymnastics.
Topics covered included:
- Understanding the Child Safe Standards
- Role of safeguarding children and young people policy in sport
- Practical steps for policy implementation
- Recruitment, screening and training
- Reporting responsibilities, obligations and creating safe environments
- Shared resources from Sport Integrity Australia
- Collaboration and networking between clubs
Feedback from attendees showed high levels of engagement and confidence:
- Over 70% of the attendees rated their understanding of the Child Safe Standards as “High” or “Very High” following the workshop.
- Many participants reported they were now more aware of the resources available and had structured steps to review their club’s practices.
- Comments highlighted the value of “breaking down what our club does and needs to improve” and “learning from other sports in the region.”
WRSA will continue to support clubs by providing resources, templates and follow-up guidance, and by hosting future workshops to build capacity across the region.
WRSA encourages clubs seeking further assistance to reach out for one-on-one support in implementing Child Safe Standards.
