We, (name of Australian agency / ICDO), whilst implementing emergency relief and/or aid and development in partnership with World Relief Australia commit to zero tolerance of child abuse. We will therefore:
– Treat all children everywhere with respect regardless of ethnicity, gender, religion, disability, social status or political persuasion
– Refrain from using language or behaviour towards children that is demeaning, harassing, culturally inappropriate or sexually provocative
– Never engage children in any form of sexual activity or acts
– Interact with children in such a way so as to facilitate transparency and accountability to other adults
– Appoint teams rather than individuals to work with unaccompanied children
– Refrain from physical punishment or discipline of children in the course of rendering aid
– Not hire children for domestic tasks or other labour inappropriate for their developmental stage, which places them at risk of injury or prevents them from accessing education
– Comply with all relevant Australian and local legislation, including labour laws in relation to child labour
– Immediately report and investigate any concerns/allegations of child abuse with appropriate procedures
– Appropriately use technology around children, including computers, mobile phones, video and cameras, and never engage in exploitative, harassing or pornographic activities
– Comply with local traditions and cultural expectations when photographing/filming children
– Obtain consent from the child or guardian prior to photographing/filming
– Ensure all images present children in a dignified and respectful manner, adequately clothed and not in sexually suggestive poses
– Not use images in such a way as to reveal identifying information about the child
– Ensure all images are honest representations of the context and facts
Full WRA Child Protection document
DFAT Child Protection Policy link
https://dfat.gov.au/about-us/publications/Pages/child-protection-policy.aspx