Safe ministry in FIEC churches 

FIEC believes that churches need to take responsibility for how vulnerable people (especially children) are treated.

FIEC notes the 10 child safe standards recommended by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sex Abuse and encourages our member churches to be aware of the Royal Commission’s recommendations as they formulate their own child safe policies.

  1. Child safety is embedded in institutional leadership, governance and culture;

  2. Children participate in decisions affecting them and are taken seriously;

  3. Families and communities are informed and involved;

  4. Equity is upheld and diverse needs are taken into account;

  5. People working with children are suitable and supported;

  6. Processes to respond to complaints of child sexual abuse are child- focused;

  7. Staff are equipped with the knowledge, skills and awareness to keep children safe through continual education and training;

  8. Physical and online environments minimise the opportunity for abuse to occur;

  9. Implementation of the Child Safe Standards is continuously reviewed and improved;

  10. Policies and procedures document how the institution is child safe.

Safe Ministry Check

All Member Churches must comply with all regulatory obligations and create a culture of safe ministry. Safe Ministry Check is the provider recommended by FIEC to provide volunteer training and screening.

Creating Safer Communities

FIEC Member Churches can access advice regarding the implementation of Safe Ministry practices and procedural advice (non-legal) in relation to Safe Ministry type concerns / allegations and complaints against FIEC clergy, church workers and congregants. All Churches in FIEC now have access to 

  1. Unlimited (working hours) access to its toll free national Safe Ministry Helpline 1800 070 511

  2. Unlimited access to its accompanying email service, csc@safercommunites.net.au.

  3. Quarterly updates regarding People Safety including legislative changes.

  4. State based updates in relation to people safety (including legislative changes) as they occur and CSC becomes aware of these changes.