Following the introduction of the National Integrity Framework, the Paddle Australia (PA) Board adopted the Working With Children Check National Statement of Intent (Statement of Intent), following consultation and unanimous endorsement by each State Paddle Association (SPA).
The Statement of Intent signifies our sports’ commitment to strengthening child safety by seeking to create national alignment in relation to requirements around Working With Children Checks or equivalent (WWCC).
In summary, PA aims to see all adults (aged 18 or over) involved at any level in the sport of paddling in a Child-Related Position (as defined in the PA Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy), hold a valid WWCC, provided they are eligible to apply for one under applicable state legislation. Including “all adults” will expand the categories of individuals requiring a WWCC as, at times, this will surpass state-based exemptions.
Implementation and operationalisation of the Statement of Intent is underway across key PA volunteer stakeholder groups including the Board, PA Committees and national level event volunteers and officials. PA also recognises that the Statement of Intent is already reflected in practice by some SPAs and affiliated clubs and is committed to leading and supporting implementation on a broader scale. Further information will be provided to SPA volunteers, affiliated clubs and their members in due course.
Paddlers are reminded that:
- WWCC laws and relevant provisions in the Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy reflect the minimum standard; and
- in alignment with the Statement of Intent, affiliated clubs and competition organisers are encouraged to integrate best practice into relevant rules and entry criteria at their discretion.
PA thanks the paddling community for its ongoing assistance to keep children in our sport safe.
