“The Church loves all her children like a loving mother, but cares for all and protects with a special affection those who are smallest and defenceless. This is the duty that Christ himself entrusted to the entire Christian community.”
– Apostolic Letter issued ‘motu proprio’ by the Supreme Pontiff Francis 4 June 2016
Purpose
The purpose of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework is to promote a culture of safeguarding within the Archdiocese and reduce the risks of abuse and harm.
Scope
The Safeguarding Framework applies to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Brisbane.
The framework applies to all Archdiocesan workers.
Framework
National Catholic Safeguarding Standards
The Archdiocese adopts and adheres to the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards. The Standards apply to all parishes, ministries, and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop.
Commitment Statement
The Archdiocese has zero tolerance for all forms of abuse and is committed to safeguarding everyone involved in its activities, ministries, and services.
The safety and wellbeing of children and adults-at-risk is paramount.
Safeguarding Principles
The following principles guide safeguarding practice in the Archdiocese:
- Safeguarding is a shared responsibility.
- Everyone who interacts with the Archdiocese is treated with dignity and respect.
- The protection and best interests of children and adults-at-risk is prioritised.
- Safe physical and online environments are provided.
- Safeguarding and abuse risks are actively identified and managed.
- Compliance with safeguarding standards, policies, procedures, and guidelines is monitored.
- Abuse concerns, suspicions, disclosures, allegations, reports and incidents are responded to promptly and effectively.
- All statutory obligations to report suspected abuse or harm are complied with.
Safeguarding Governance
Monitoring and Compliance
The Archdiocese of Brisbane is committed to continuous improvement of its safeguarding practice, and compliance with the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards is monitored through a program of internal and external auditing.
Non-compliance with this framework, which seriously jeopardises the safety and wellbeing of others, will be reported to the Vicar General and may be grounds for disciplinary action resulting in dismissal or termination of employment, and reporting to church and/or statutory authorities.
Download a copy of the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework
For more information about the Archdiocesan Safeguarding Framework, contact the Office for Safeguarding Services at safeguarding@bne.catholic.net.au or on 07 3324 3752.