Magikarate Child Protection and Working With Children Check (WWCC) PolicyEffective Date: 31/01/2025
Next Review Date: 31/01/2026
1. Policy Statement
Magikarate is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and empowerment of all children and young people who train with us. We support the rights of children and will act without hesitation to ensure a safe environment for them. We have zero tolerance for child abuse, and we take all allegations and safety concerns seriously.This policy outlines our approach to child safety, including compliance with relevant laws in Victoria, such as mandatory Working With Children Checks (WWCC), reporting obligations, and child-safe practices in a martial arts context.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:Ensure a safe and supportive training environment for all children.Educate staff, instructors, volunteers, and parents about their roles in child protection.Comply with the Child Safe Standards and Working With Children Act 2005 (VIC).Outline Magikarate’s commitment to preventing child abuse and responding to concerns appropriately.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all:Magikarate instructors, coaches, staff, and volunteers.Contractors and external providers engaged by Magikarate.Parents and guardians participating in Magikarate activities.Students, especially those under 18 years of age
4. Definitions Child:
Any person under the age of 18.Child Abuse: Includes physical, sexual, emotional abuse, neglect, and grooming.WWCC: The Working With Children Check, a screening required by law in Victoria to assess suitability to work with children.
5. Code of Conduct:
All adults involved in Magikarate activities must:Treat every child with respect and fairness.Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of students at all times.Avoid one-on-one interactions in isolated areas.Use appropriate physical contact only for martial arts instruction, and always in line with safety and consent protocols.Never engage in:Physical punishment or intimidation.Sexualised behaviour or suggestive language.Private communication with students via social media or messaging apps (unless parental consent is obtained).Report any concerns or incidents immediately.
6. Working With Children Check (WWCC) Requirements
In accordance with Victorian law:All Magikarate instructors, staff, and volunteers over 18 who work with or around children must have a current and valid WWCC before starting their role.A copy of the WWCC must be provided to management and kept on file.WWCCs are monitored and updated regularly; any changes in status must be reported immediately.
7. Recruitment and Screening
Before engaging any adult in a role involving children, Magikarate will:
Require a WWCC.Conduct reference checks where applicable.
Ensure understanding and agreement with our Child Safety Code of Conduct.
8. Reporting Concerns
All staff, volunteers, parents, and students have a responsibility to report any concerns about child safety.
Internal Reporting:Child Safety Officer: Nick Andrianakis, Head Instructor 
Email: nick@magikarate.com
Phone: 0418 568 760
External Reporting:
Victoria Police: 000 (emergency)
Child Protection (DHHS Victoria): 1300 664 977
Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP): www.ccyp.vic.gov.au Reports can be made confidentially and without fear of retaliation
9. Online Safety (if applicable)
If Magikarate uses digital platforms for classes or communication:
Children’s identities and images will only be used with parental consent.
Online platforms will be mvonitored for inappropriate content or interaction.
Any private communication with minors must include parental oversight.
10. Training and Induction
All instructors and staff will receive:Training on child protection and WWCC obligations.A copy of this policy and the Child Safety Code of Conduct.Information on how to recognise and respond to child safety concerns.
11. Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes to legislation or serious incidents involving child safety. Feedback from staff, families, and students will inform improvements.
12. Related Documents
Magikarate Code of Conduct
Magikarate Privacy Policy
Working With Children Check Policy
Victoria Child Safe Standards (VIC)