Child Protection and Mandatory Reporting

At Chabad Malvern Early Learning Centre, ensuring the safety and well-being of every child is of paramount importance. We are legally obligated to report any indications of sexual or physical abuse if there is a reasonable suspicion. The following guidelines outline our procedures for dealing with suspected abuse:

  1. Keep Detailed Observations:

    • Staff are instructed to maintain detailed observations regularly.

  2. Address Concerns to the Coordinator:

    • Any concerns regarding potential abuse should be promptly addressed to the centre coordinator.

  3. Immediate Reporting of "Reasonable Grounds":

    • If there are "reasonable grounds" to suspect abuse, staff must inform the coordinator immediately.

  4. Meet with Co-Workers and Management:

    • Co-workers and management will be involved to discuss legal aspects and maintain confidentiality.

  5. Make the Notification:

    • The coordinator will follow up with the appropriate authorities based on the established guidelines.

  6. Maintain Confidentiality:

    • All documentation and communication regarding suspected abuse will be kept strictly confidential.

  7. Continuous Observation and Support:

    • Staff will continue to observe the child, provide reassurance, and seek help or support from community services if necessary.

  8. Communication with Authorities:

    • All communication with the coordinator and the department will be kept open and documented.

  9. Documentation for Chabad Malvern ELC:

    • Relevant documentation for Chabad Malvern ELC will be completed and stored in a confidential location.

Mandatory Reporting Procedure:

Under the new legislation, qualified staff at Chabad Malvern ELC are mandatory notifiers. The reporting procedure is as follows:

  • Reasonable Grounds to Notify:

    • Staff have reasonable grounds to notify when a child discloses abuse, when someone they know indicates abuse, or when they observe signs of physical or sexual abuse.

  • Proof Not Required:

    • Staff do not need proof; reasonable grounds for belief are sufficient.

  • Confidentiality:

    • The identity of the notifier will remain confidential, but exceptions may apply in certain legal proceedings.

  • Legal Obligation and Penalties:

    • Failure to notify when there are reasonable grounds constitutes an offence with a penalty of $1,000.00.

  • Contacting Child Protection Victoria:

    • Notifications of suspected abuse should be made to the local Child Protection Victoria office at the earliest opportunity.

Child Protection Line:

  • 13 12 78 (toll-free), 24-hour service.

When Making a Notification, Information Required:

  1. The child’s name, age, and address.
  2. The reason for suspecting abuse.
  3. Assessment of immediate danger to the child.
  4. Description of observed injury or behavior.
  5. Current whereabouts of the child and suspected abusers.
  6. Any other relevant information about the family.

We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all children, and these procedures are in place to fulfill our legal and ethical obligations in ensuring their protection and well-being. If you have any questions or need further clarification on our Child Protection Policy, please feel free to discuss this with the coordinator or refer to the provided policy document.