Child Safety

Child Safety at Fountain Gate Junior Football Club

At Fountain Gate Junior Football Club (FGJFC), the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children and young people are our highest priorities. We are committed to fostering a child-safe environment where all players feel protected, supported, and respected. Our policies and procedures align with AFL Victoria’s Child Safe Standards, South East Juniors (SEJ) regulations, and Victorian Child Safety Laws, ensuring compliance with best practices for safeguarding children in sport.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

Fountain Gate Junior Football Club upholds the 11 Child Safe Standards established by the Victorian Government and enforced by AFL Victoria and South East Juniors (SEJ). These standards are designed to create a culture of safety and accountability in community sport.

✅ Zero Tolerance for Abuse & Harm – We have a strict policy against any form of child abuse, bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
✅ Empowering Young People – We listen to and value the voices of our junior players, encouraging them to speak up about any concerns.
✅ Working with Children Checks (WWCC) – All coaches, team managers, volunteers, and committee members must hold a valid WWCC to participate in club activities.
✅ Safe Coaching & Training Practices – Our club follows AFL Victoria’s Safety Guidelines, including appropriate training loads, injury management, and concussion protocols.
✅ Clear Reporting & Complaint Procedures – We provide multiple ways for children and adults to report concerns safely and confidentially.
✅ Inclusive & Welcoming Environment – We celebrate diversity and ensure a safe space for all children, regardless of gender, cultural background, or ability.

Child Safe Standards & Legislation

Our policies and practices align with the following key standards and regulations:

📌 AFL Victoria’s Child Safe Policy – Ensures clubs implement child-safe environments and mandatory safeguarding measures.
📌 South East Juniors (SEJ) Code of Conduct – Covers behavioral expectations for players, coaches, and spectators.
📌 Victorian Child Safe Standards – Legal requirements for all child-related organizations to protect children from harm.
📌 Working with Children Act 2005 (Vic) – Requires all volunteers and staff in child-related roles to hold a valid WWCC.
📌 Reportable Conduct Scheme (Commission for Children & Young People, Victoria) – Ensures allegations of child-related misconduct are properly reported and managed.

Reporting Concerns & Seeking Support

We encourage all players, parents, and community members to report any safety concerns immediately. Your voice matters, and every concern is taken seriously.

Child Safety Officer: Jenifer Russell - csofgjfc@gmail.com
AFL Victoria Child Safety Hub: Child Safeguarding - SEJ | South East Juniors

All reports are handled with confidentiality and in accordance with AFL Victoria and SEJ policies.

Building a Safe & Supportive Club Culture

Fountain Gate Junior Football Club is more than just a football club—it’s a community where every child should feel safe, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. By working together as players, parents, coaches, and volunteers, we can create a safer and more inclusive future for junior football.

For more information or to discuss any child safety concerns, please contact our Child Safety Officer or a club committee member.

Together, we play for safety, respect, and the love of the game.