Urban Camp's Commitment to Child Safety and Wellbeing

Ensuring a safe environment for school camps and groups

Urban Camp's Commitment to Child Safety with kids listening to a safety talk at Urban Camp

Safety underpins all of our efforts so you can have peace of mind. 

Please review Urban Camp Children Protection Policy.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

At Urban Camp, child safety is our top priority. Our dedicated team is committed to creating and maintaining a child-safe environment where children and young people feel secure, listened to, and empowered. We strive to provide a culture of inclusion, respect, and participation for every guest, regardless of background or ability.

Every child who visits Urban Camp has the right to feel and be safe. We are devoted to supporting their wellbeing, actively encouraging feedback, and involving them in decisions about their camp experience.

Child Safety Practices and Policies

  • Comprehensive Policy: Our Child Protection Policy outlines our commitment to safety, supported by Federal and State legislation, including the Child Wellbeing and Safety Amendment (Child Safety Standards) Act, 2015 (VIC). The policy is reviewed bi-annually or as required by new legislation.

  • Code of Conduct: Every staff member and volunteer receives our Code of Conduct and signs a pledge to uphold the highest standards of behaviour while working with children.

  • Zero Tolerance for Abuse: We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse, physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, cultural, or bullying. All allegations are taken seriously and acted upon according to established procedures.

How We Keep Children Safe

  • Trained, Vetted Staff: All staff and volunteers undergo:

    • Reference and criminal record checks, including Working With Children Checks.

    • Annual child safety and protective behaviour training.

    • Induction and ongoing education on child safety and conduct protocols.

  • Clear Reporting: We appoint a Child Safety Officer (currently Jenny Ball, Programs@urbancamp.org.au, Ph: 9328 2818) as the contact point for safety concerns or incidents. All reports are treated confidentially and followed up according to strict process guidelines.

  • Incident & Complaint Procedures: Accessible processes are in place for children, staff, or guests to raise concerns. Standard forms and a transparent reporting process help ensure all voices are heard and supported through resolution.

  • Risk Management: Every camp, program, and activity is risk assessed before it begins. This proactive approach covers both general safety hazards and child protection risks.

Physical Security Measures

  • CCTV & Access Controls: CCTV cameras and secure access points ensure restricted entry and oversight of all facilities at all times.

  • Supervised Groups Only: Urban Camp accepts only school or approved group bookings during school terms, ensuring no individual or unsupervised bookings.

Welcoming and Orientation

  • Welcome to Camp Briefings: Each group is welcomed on arrival. This customary session covers camp rules, safety expectations, reporting channels, and answers to your questions in an open forum.

  • Child Participation: Children are encouraged to share feedback and express concerns at any time, either in person or through feedback surveys, so we can continually improve their camp experience.

What Should You Do If You Have a Concern?

  • If you notice or suspect abuse or unsafe behaviour:

    • Speak to our Child Safety Officer or a staff member immediately.

    • Use our Complaints or Incident Report forms, available on site.

    • All reports are handled with care, compassion, and confidentiality.

Legislation and Standards

We operate under the strict requirements of relevant Federal and Victorian laws, including but not limited to:

  • Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (VIC)

  • Working with Children Act 2005 (VIC)

  • Crimes Amendment (Protection of Children) Acts (VIC)

  • The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who do I contact in an emergency?
Contact our Child Safety Officer or any Urban Camp staff member. For urgent situations, call emergency services (000).

How can my child give feedback or report a concern?
Children are encouraged to speak to their group leader, a trusted staff member, or the Child Safety Officer. Feedback surveys are provided after their stay.

Learn More

For more details, please review our full Child Protection Policy or contact the Child Safety Officer with questions.

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