Child safety standards

Events which children are expected to attend must adhere to child safety standards. Compliance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards is a legal requirement in Victoria. 

These are not optional guidelines. Event organisers have a duty of care to ensure children are protected from harm. Failure to comply may result in regulatory action and liability.

Key considerations for child safety

• Victorian Child Safe Standards. The City of Boroondara complies with the Victorian Child Safe Standards, which provide a framework for organisations to create safe environments for children. Event organisers are strongly encouraged to use these Standards as guiding principles when planning and delivering events.
• Child Protection policies. Ensure your event has policies in place to safeguard children and respond to any concerns regarding their safety. These policies should be communicated to staff, volunteers and contractors.
• Working with Children Checks (WCC). Any personnel interacting with children (including volunteers, entertainers, and contractors) must hold a valid WWCC. Organisers are responsible for checking compliance with state law. Learn about Working with Children Checks.
• Role designation and escalation. Clearly define roles, escalation points, and key contacts for child safety. For example, appoint a nominated Child Safety Officer or designate a specific staff member (for example, ‘Janet is the contact if a child safety incident occurs’).
• Safe child-to-adult ratios. For events involving children, maintain appropriate ratios of adults to children. Ratios should be based on the age group and the type of activity being offered.
• Develop clear procedures for managing lost children. This should include:
  • a designated safe area (well-marked and staffed)
  • trained staff or volunteers to support the child
  • a secure process for reuniting children with their guardians.
• Design the event site for child safety. Consider:
  • placement of children’s activity areas away from traffic, water hazards, or areas serving alcohol
  • barriers and clear boundaries around children’s zones
  • provision of shade, weather protection, and seating suitable for families.
• Activity supervision. All child-focused activities (rides, workshops, performances) must be properly supervised by trained staff or volunteers. Ensure the activities are safe, age-appropriate and inclusive.
• Child-friendly spaces. Where applicable, provide areas for children and families that include age-appropriate entertainment, breastfeeding spaces and baby-change facilities.
• Photography and filming consent. If children may be photographed or filmed at your event, you must:
  • display signage informing attendees that photography/filming is taking place
  • obtain signed parental/guardian consent before using or publishing identifiable images of children
  • ensure images are stored and used in line with privacy obligations.

Download a Child Safety Plan template