Safeguarding Children Commitment Statement

WGTA has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of child abuse or harm and is committed to ensuring that tennis across our region is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all children and young people.

We will ensure that child safety is embedded in our organisation’s culture, reflected in our policies and procedures, and understood and practiced at all levels of our sport.

We commit to making sure that everyone involved with delivering tennis in the WGTA, from club administrators, volunteers, parents and participants, understand the important responsibilities they have in relation to child safety.

Our commitment extends beyond creating an environment that minimises risk or danger. We are committed to building an environment that is both child-safe and child-friendly.

Together we can provide an environment in which children feel respected, valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

 

Our Commitment to Safeguarding Children

  • We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child involved in our competitions and events.
  • We are committed to providing positive, supportive, and nurturing experiences for all young participants.
  • We will support families, clubs, and communities to promote the healthy development and wellbeing of every child.
  • We will stive to ensure children are protected.
  • We will listen to children and take seriously any concerns they raise.
  • We will seek parental or guardian consent before collecting or sharing information about children, except where disclosure to police or statutory child-protection agencies is required for safety reasons.
  • We will ensure that all children — regardless of gender, ability, cultural background, or religion — can participate in tennis in a safe and enjoyable environment.
  • Clubs appoint and train a Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO) who will act as the first point of contact for any concerns relating to child safety or welfare. The WGTA may refer to the club based MPIO or Tennis Victoria MPIO.

 

Our Commitment to Parents and Carers

  • We are committed to working with parents and carers to keep children safe and supported.
  • We will communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully about children’s wellbeing, except where doing so may compromise their safety.
  • We will provide information and guidance to families about our child-safe practices and how they can raise concerns.
  • We will respect family values and cultural backgrounds and provide support that builds on family strengths.
  • We will promote our child-safety commitment during club onboarding, competition registration, and community engagement activities.

 

Our Commitment to a Child-Safe Organisation

  • We are committed to using best practice standards in the recruitment, screening and appointment of any persons in a position of authority
  • We will foster an environment where children feel safe, respected, and empowered to speak up.
  • We will continuously review and improve our child-safety practices to ensure they remain effective and compliant with the Tennis Australia Safeguarding Framework.

 

This commitment was endorsed and approved by the Wellington Gippsland Tennis Association Committee on (to be endorsed AGM 2026)