Junior & Child Safety Policy
The Southern Squash League (SSL) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all players — especially children and young people.
We uphold the Victorian Child Safe Standards and follow the Squash Australia Child Safeguarding Policy to ensure every child can participate safely and confidently.
Our Commitment
SSL recognises that the safety and wellbeing of children and young people are everyone’s responsibility.
- Promoting participation and empowerment of children.
- Ensuring all participants uphold child safety standards.
- Preventing abuse and responding quickly to concerns.
- Creating an environment where children feel safe and respected.
Scope
This policy applies to all people involved in SSL activities, including:
Junior players under 18 years of age
Parents and guardians
Coaches and referees
Committee members, volunteers, and club representatives
Spectators and supporters attending SSL events
Code of Conduct for Working with Children
- Treat children with respect and understanding.
- Listen and respond to children’s concerns.
- Never use abusive or inappropriate language.
- Avoid being alone with a child without another adult present.
- Never use physical punishment or inappropriate contact.
- Immediately report suspected harm or misconduct.
- Support a safe and inclusive sporting environment.
Child Safety Checks & Screening
All SSL officials, referees, and volunteers who work directly with children must hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC).
- Affiliated clubs are responsible for verifying compliance.
- SSL maintains a register of current WWCC holders.
- Compliance is monitored annually.
Reporting Concerns or Incidents
SSL encourages all players, parents, and club representatives to speak up about any child safety concerns.
How to Report a Concern:
- Speak directly with the SSL Child Safety Officer or Committee.
- Email info@southernsquashleague.com.au with the subject line “Child Safety Concern”.
- Submit a report through the Report a Breach Form on the SSL website.
Photography & Media
- Parental or guardian consent is required before publishing images of junior players.
- Only respectful and appropriate images will be used.
- No personal details such as addresses or school names will be published.
Education & Awareness
SSL provides resources and guidance to help clubs, volunteers, and parents understand their child safety responsibilities.
- Promoting Squash Australia Child Safeguarding Policy.
- Providing child safety education resources.
- Ensuring officials understand incident procedures.
Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or following any major child safety incident, regulatory update, or operational change.
All updates are approved by the SSL Committee and published on the SSL website.
Contact
For questions or reports relating to child safety, please contact:
Southern Squash League Child Safety Officer
Email: info@southernsquashleague.com.au
Phone: 0412 998 362