The SLSWA Member Screening Policy aligns with state legislation to ensure best-practice protection for children and young people in all Surf Life Saving environments.

🔗 Read the SLSWA Member Screening Policy (Sept 2023)

Secret Harbour SLSC requests all members to apply for and obtain a WWCC before their membership can be approved, as per the SLSWA Member Screening Policy.

The WWCC helps keep children safe by preventing people with relevant criminal history from working with them.

• Cost: $11.00 for volunteers.
• Forms: Collect from the club.
• Submission: Lodge at your local Australia Post office.

🔗 More information on WWCC

All members should be familiar with key SLSA and SLSWA policies:

• Member Protection Policy (6.05)
• Inclusion & Diversity Statement (6.05A)
• Complaints Resolution Policy (6.06 – Oct 2024)
• Child Safe Code of Conduct
• Child Safe Guidelines (2023)
• SLSA Code of Conduct
• SLSA Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy

Purpose

The MPIO provides confidential, impartial, and supportive information to members who have concerns about inappropriate behaviour, breaches of conduct, or welfare matters. They ensure members understand their rights, responsibilities, and available options under Surf Life Saving’s Member Protection and Child Safe Policies.

Key Responsibilities

• First Point of Contact: Listen to concerns in a safe, private, and non-judgmental way.
• Information Provider: Explain relevant policies, codes of conduct, and complaint processes.
• Referral Role: Guide members to appropriate contacts (e.g., Club President, State MPIO, external services).
• Promote Respectful Behaviour: Support a safe, inclusive, and welcoming club culture.
• Stay Informed: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of SLSA Member Protection and Child Safe guidelines.

What the MPIO Does Not Do

• Investigate complaints or make decisions.
• Take sides or advocate for one party over another.
• Enforce rules or issue penalties.

When to Contact the MPIO

• Bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Abuse, inappropriate conduct, or safety concerns.
• Conflict or disputes between members.
• Questions about member protection or club policies.

Confidentiality

All discussions are confidential unless:

• There is a legal requirement to report (e.g., child safety concerns), or
• The member gives permission to share information.

📧 Contact the Club MPIO: mpio@secretharbourslsc.com

SLS Complaint Procedures

Child Safety Concerns

Any matter involving abuse or suspected abuse of children/young people (under 18) must be reported.

If you believe there has been a breach of the Child Safe Policy (6.04):

1. Report via the SLS Reporting System
2. If criminal activity is suspected or a child is in immediate danger, call 000 before submitting the online report.

Other Complaints or Grievances

1. Speak with your Club MPIO first to understand your rights, responsibilities, and available options. Contact the MPIO at mpio@secretharbourslsc.com or phone 08 9524 7092.
2. If you decide to lodge a formal complaint, submit it through the SLS Reporting System.