The AAPCH recognises the importance and is committed to providing safe, respectful and inclusive environments for all children and young people. We believe every child has the right to grow up free from abuse, neglect or exploitation, and to thrive within families and communities that support their wellbeing and development. We foster a culture of transparency, accountability and shared responsibility to ensure that children and young people are protected and supported.
Our commitment is grounded in the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Weembed these fundamental principles into our leadership and governance, and align with Australia’s National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and child safeguarding expectations across Aotearoa New Zealand. We recognise children and young people as taonga (precious) , and uphold their rights to be heard, to participate in decisions that affect them, and to have their cultural identity, language and mana (inherent worth) respected. True safeguarding is grounded in cultural safety, belonging and respect. We are committed to culturally safe practice and to honouring the rights and identities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, Māori children, and children from diverse backgrounds, abilities, genders and identities.”
AAPCH has zero tolerance for child abuse, neglect, exploitation, or harm. We expect all members and partners to champion safe, ethical and respectful environments and to contribute to a culture where children’s safety and dignity are paramount.
We recognise that safeguarding is collective work, strengthened through close collaboration with families, community and the sector. AAPCH is committed to strengthening safeguarding capability across the sector and ensuring that children’s voices, safety, rights and dignity remain central to everything we do.