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Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures (Australia)
We Make Footballers — Safeguarding Children
We Make Footballers acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every child and young person entrusted to its care. We align with Australian child protection laws and best practices, including the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations, Sport Integrity Australia guidelines, and Football Australia's Member Protection Framework.
Responsible & Safer Recruitment
Each We Make Footballers academy is an independently owned and operated franchise. We mandate that all franchise owners follow strict, responsible recruitment guidelines for all staff and volunteers. Franchisees are required to:
- Clearly specify each role and the tasks it involves.
- Request valid identification documents from all applicants.
- Meet and interview applicants before appointing them.
- Follow up with a minimum of two references.
- Require and verify a valid, state-specific Working With Children Check (WWCC) or Blue Card for all eligible roles, in line with state and territory legislation.
All We Make Footballers staff working with children are required to hold a current, valid WWCC or Blue Card clearance as part of our responsible recruitment practice.
Reporting Concerns
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. If you are worried about a child, report your concerns to your local franchise's Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO) or Child Safety Officer immediately.
- Poor Practice: If the issue involves poor practice, the local MPIO will handle the matter directly or seek further guidance.
- Suspected Abuse: If the concern involves possible child abuse, contact local state police or state Child Protection authorities immediately.
- Immediate Danger: If a child needs immediate medical attention, call 000 and notify your local MPIO.
- Corporate Escalation: If you are unable to reach your local MPIO, if the matter is not being handled appropriately locally, or if the issue involves the franchise owner themselves, email our central team directly at info@wemakefootballers.com.
If the matter is clearly serious and you cannot reach local management, you can also:
- Contact your local state or territory Child Protection agency.
- Call Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (available 24/7).
- Contact local law enforcement by calling 000.
Whistleblowing
We Make Footballers supports a clear whistleblowing policy. Concerns about an adult in a position of trust within our programs can be reported by:
- Emailing We Make Footballers Head Office directly at info@wemakefootballers.com.
- Contacting Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) via their online reporting forms at sportintegrity.gov.au.
- Calling the Police or your state's Child Protection agency.
Further Information
Last updated: April 23, 2026
