Our Commitment to Child Safety

The Wedge is committed to being a child safe organisation and has zero tolerance for child abuse. We recognise our legal and moral responsibilities in keeping children and young people safe from harm and promoting their best interests.

We are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, culturally and linguistically diverse children, gender diverse children, and children with a disability. Our aim is to create enriching experiences for children and young people, ensuring they feel safe, happy and empowered.

Where to Report Child Abuse

All adults in Victoria have a responsibility to report if they know or suspect that a child is being abused. If you suspect or know a child or young person is being abused, you must report it.

In an Emergency

If a child or young person is in immediate danger, call 000 and ask for the police.

Where you have immediate concerns about the safety of a child or young person, contact the State Government Child Protection services:

• 1300 664 977 – Monday to Friday, 8.45am to 5pm
• 13 12 78 – Monday to Friday, 5pm to 9am and 24 hours on weekends and public holidays

The Wedge’s Reporting Responsibilities

We encourage children, young people and their families to speak up if they are worried about a child-safe concern. A support person can help them raise their concern or speak up on their behalf.

A child safe concern can be reported to Council in the following ways:

• In person: Visit any Council Customer Service Centre and ask to speak with the Manager People & Capability or General Manager Corporate Services.
• By phone: Call Customer Service on 1300 366 244 and ask to speak with the Manager People & Capability.
• By email: [email protected]
• In writing: Post in an envelope marked “Private and Confidential” to:
Manager People and Capability, PO Box 506, Sale VIC 3850

See Something, Say Something

The failure to disclose offence applies to all adults in Victoria.

Any adult who has a reasonable belief that another adult has committed a sexual offence against a child under 16 years of age must report that information to the police by calling:

• Emergency 000 if a child is in immediate danger.
• Sale Police Station on (03) 5142 2200 if the child is not in immediate danger.

Why Report Child Abuse?

• Reporting child abuse is a vital first step in helping children and young people experiencing abuse or neglect.
• Child abuse can have a devastating impact on children and young people; failing to report may allow the abuse to continue.
• Taking action ensures that children, young people and families receive the help and support they need.
• When concerns are not acted upon, perpetrators can continue abusing and may move between organisations or communities.

Resources and Further Information

For more information on our responsibilities in keeping children safe, visit:
www.wellington.vic.gov.au/council/child-safety