The Children’s Rights Alliance Inc., trading as Children’s Rights Queensland, is committed to engaging communities, hosting and supporting events, and providing resources and programs that empower children and their families by promoting education and awareness of children’s rights. Volunteers are essential to the success of this mission, contributing through program and event support, raising awareness, and helping us achieve our goals.

This policy takes effect from January 2025 and supersedes all previous policies, whether documented or not.

This policy applies to:

• Leadership Team
• Executive
• Employees
• Contractors
• Volunteers

The individuals above will be referred to as ‘Team Members’ throughout this policy.

• Volunteer: A person who offers their time and services to CRQ without receiving monetary compensation, providing support to our programs, events, and initiatives.

• Leadership Team: Ensure compliance with this policy, provide strategic oversight, and ensure adequate training and resources for volunteers.
• Volunteers: Promote child safety, follow CRQ's policies and procedures, and contribute positively to the delivery of children’s rights initiative.
• Contractors: Conduct risk assessments, ensure volunteers are working in safe, supportive, and culturally appropriate environments, and report any concerns promptly.

 At Children’s Rights Queensland, we value the contributions of our volunteers and are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where they can thrive. Volunteers are an essential part of our work in advocating for children's rights and ensuring the success of our programs. Volunteers will be provided with the necessary training and support to perform their roles safely and effectively.

Volunteers are expected to:

• Uphold CRQ’s values and contribute to realise its vision.
• Follow the guidelines, policies, and procedures established by CRQ, including those related to child protection and confidentiality.
• Actively promote child safety and advocate for the rights of children in all interactions.
• Maintain a positive, respectful, and professional demeanour when working with children, families, staff, and other stakeholders.
• Report any concerns about child safety, initiative delivery, or volunteer well-being to the appropriate leader.

CRQ is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse volunteer environment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences to volunteer with us. We aim to provide equal opportunities to all volunteers regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other characteristic.

CRQ offers training and support to all volunteers, ensuring they have the knowledge and tools to perform their roles effectively. Volunteers will:

• Complete an online orientation module to familiarise themselves with CRQ’s work and policies.
• Have access to ongoing support and guidance from the CRQ team.
• Be encouraged to attend meetings to share experiences.
• Be provided with opportunities to provide feedback and complete evaluations.

CRQ is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all volunteers. Volunteers are expected to:

• Follow safety guidelines and report any unsafe conditions or accidents immediately.
• Understand and comply with CRQ’s child protection and safeguarding policies.
• Respect CRQ’s commitment to providing a non-threatening and non-abusive environment for children, families, and staff.
• Consider their health and wellbeing when participating in volunteer activities, ensuring they are fit for the tasks at hand.
• Report incidents as soon as possible.
• Advise CRQ if you plan to represent the organisation at an event and need insurance coverage.

Volunteers working directly with children or in roles that may involve contact with children must comply with CRQ’s child protection policy. This includes:

• A commitment to uphold the rights of children and protect them from harm.
• The completion of a Working with Children Check (Blue Card or equivalent) as required by law.
• Adhering to CRQ’s child safeguarding practices and reporting any concerns immediately.

CRQ values the contributions of its volunteers. Volunteers will be acknowledged for their efforts through:

• Public recognition via newsletters, social media, and other CRQ communications.
• Opportunities to develop new skills and take on other roles.

All volunteers will be required to sign a volunteer agreement that outlines the terms of their role with CRQ. This agreement may include:

• Specific tasks and expectations.
• Guidelines for behaviour and conduct.
  
  

Volunteers are encouraged to review and discuss the agreement before signing, and CRQ will maintain an open line of communication regarding any updates or changes to the agreement.

Volunteers must respect the confidentiality of all sensitive information they may have access to during their time with CRQ. This includes information related to children, families, staff, and organisational strategies. Volunteers must not disclose any confidential information without proper authorisation.

CRQ is committed to maintaining a positive and respectful environment for volunteers. If any volunteer has concerns or grievances, they should:

• Raise the issue with a member of the CRQ Leadership Team.
• Engage in a constructive dialogue to resolve the concern.
• If necessary, escalate the matter to CRQ’s leadership team for further review.
  
  

CRQ will ensure that all complaints are handled in a timely, fair, and respectful manner.

Volunteers may choose to discontinue their role at any time with reasonable notice. Similarly, CRQ reserves the right to terminate a volunteer’s involvement if they do not adhere to CRQ policies or engage in behaviour that is harmful to the organisation or its mission. Termination will be communicated with respect and clarity, and the volunteer will be given an opportunity to discuss the matter.

Non-compliance with this policy by any team member may result in investigations, corrective actions, disciplinary measures (e.g., warnings or termination), or reporting to relevant authorities. Breaches must be reported promptly to a member of the Children’s Rights Alliance Leadership Team.

• The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
• Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000 (QLD)
• Child Protection Act 1999 (QLD)
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (QLD)
• Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)
• Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (QLD)

• Approval: Approved by the Child Rights Alliance Inc. Leadership Team.
• Review: This policy will be reviewed every two years. Feedback from children, families, and stakeholders will guide updates.

Please contact us.