Our Commitment
We affirm that all people should know emotional and physical safety, and be respected (Genesis 1:27; Psalm 139; Colossians 3). We recognise that we have a spiritual duty to ensure that the Anglican church of Bacchus Marsh, Myrniong and Balliang is a safe place to be. We recognise that although we will at times disagree with one another, this must be experienced in a manner of mutual care and respect (Philippians 2). Throughout the Bible God continually calls out the vulnerable for protection and care despite their powerlessness (Exodus 22:21-22; James 1:27).
We also live in a country that legislates for people’s safety. As a church, we have committed to complying with all national, state, and diocesan policy and legislation to ensure that everyone is safe within the Anglican church of Bacchus Marsh, Myrniong and Balliang. We maintain a culture of safety and wellbeing though a culture that has a zero tolerance for violence of any kind. We provide safe and independent avenues for anyone to speak up.
Everyone who is engaged in ministry at the Anglican church of Bacchus Marsh, Myrniong and Balliang is trained to recognise and respond to situations that put our members and community at risk. And we take appropriate and right action. This extends to:
Ensuring the safety of children and young people
Recognising and responding to family and domestic violence including our elders
Recognising and responding to bullying and abuse of power
Eradicating all violence against women and members of the LGBTQI+ community
Ensuring the health and safety of everyone who uses our church and facilities
Reporting and Making a Complaint
Kooyoora Ltd has been appointed by the Melbourne Diocese to respond to all complaints of misconduct including sexual, physical, spiritual or emotional abuse by clergy or Church officers. Kooyoora Ltd is an independent Professional Standards company which undertakes Professional Standards work for not for profit charitable entities. To learn how to contact Kooyoora Ltd and the process of making a complaint, please click below.
Safe Ministry Program
For further information on Safe Ministry Matters, please contact our Vicar or visit the Diocese of Melbourne Safe Ministry Toolbox.
The Toolbox includes information on:
Mandatory reporting
Safe Ministry training
Support and redress
Diocesan policy and procedure
Child Safe Standards
Screening and Clearances for Ministry