Child Safety
Source: https://rusu.rmit.edu.au/club-leader-resources-child-safety/ Parent: https://rusu.rmit.edu.au/club-leader-resources-home/
Club Leader Resources
Child Safety
Overview
At RMIT University, the legal age of adulthood is 18. Anyone under this age is considered a child. RMIT’s Child Safety Framework applies to all clubs and student activities, including RUSU. Clubs must follow specific child safety rules if they allow members or event attendees under 18 years old.
Even if your club doesn’t allow under-18 members, key child safety measures must still be followed. Club leaders must have a Working With Children Check (WWCC) and be familiar with RMIT’s Child Safety Framework.
Important:
- Clubs cannot accept membership from anyone under the age of 16.
- Clubs must meet RMIT’s child safety requirements before allowing under-18 members or attendees at events.
By following these guidelines, you help ensure that your club events are safe and compliant. If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to the RUSU Clubs Team.
Key Child Safety Requirements for Clubs
Under 18 Parental Consent Form
Before a person under 18 can join your club or participate in any club activities, parental consent is required. The form must be completed and securely stored by the club.
- Download: RUSU Parental Consent Form
- Download: U18 Media Consent and Release Form (for images, audio or video taken during events)
- Download: Essential Child Safety Information for RUSU Clubs
Working With Children Checks (WWCC) for Club Leaders
All executive members of the club (including President and Secretary) must have a valid WWCC. This is mandatory even if your club doesn’t accept under-18 members.
- Free for Volunteers: These checks are free for most volunteers and are great for your CV.
- The Club President is responsible for ensuring that at least four executive members have valid WWCCs, and the club keeps a copy of these checks on file.
- Note: Some members may need to visit an Australia Post Office to complete the WWCC due to identification requirements.
For more details and to apply:
- Read our guide on How to Apply for a Working With Children Check
- Apply for a Working With Children Check
- Address: 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
- Phone: (03) 9925 5000
- ABN: 49 781 030 034
- Apply as an RMIT Volunteer
WWCC for Suppliers, Performers & Partners
If your on-campus events involve external people (e.g., suppliers, performers), or if these external individuals may interact with under-18 participants at off-campus events, they must have a valid WWCC and comply with RMIT’s Child Safe Policy.
- On-campus: Includes caterers, performers, guest speakers, trainers, etc.
- Off-campus: Includes staff at off-campus events, camp staff, drivers, etc.
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RUSU has a special form for clubs to confirm that external partners have valid WWCCs and will follow child safety policies.
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Photos, Videos & Online Events
Clubs hosting online events must ensure that the virtual environment is safe for children. For any photos or videos of under-18 participants, prior written consent from parents/guardians is required.
- RMIT Online Child Safety Image Guidelines: No photos or videos of children/young people should be taken unless permission is granted in advance.
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If your online meeting or activity is recorded, a parental consent form must be completed for under-18 participants.
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Additional Resources for Child Safety
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