Child and Youth Safe Information
For venue managers and staff
The Hobart Cup
Executive Summary
As a venue manager or staff member, you play a critical role in ensuring the Hobart Cup Junior and Youth Football Tournament is a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for all children and young people. By understanding and applying these safety guidelines, you help create a positive environment where every participant can thrive through football. Your commitment to child safety is valued and essential.
For any questions or concerns, please contact:
Tournament Director Victoria Morton
📞 0417 597 643 | 📧 thehobartcup@bigpond.com
Purpose
This guide outlines your responsibilities in promoting child safety, recognising signs of harm, and responding appropriately. It aligns with the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and Tasmanian child safety laws, including mandatory reporting obligations.
KEY OBJECTIVES
Understand the importance of child and youth safety.
Recognise signs of potential abuse or neglect.
Know how to respond and report concerns.
Understand and uphold the Code of Conduct.
Maintain safe physical and digital environments.
UNDERSTANDING CHILD AND YOUTH SAFETY
What is Child and Youth Safety?
Protecting children and young people from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, while promoting their wellbeing and development.
WHY IT MATTERS
Ensures the physical and emotional safety of participants.
Promotes a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Builds trust with players, families, and the wider community.
KEY PRINCIPLES
The best interests of the child and young people are paramount.
All children have the right to protection from harm.
Everyone is responsibile for child safety, regardless of their role.
RECOGNISING SIGNS OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT
Types of Abuse
Physical abuse: Hitting, shaking, or other forms of physical harm.
Emotional abuse: Repeated rejection, threats, or criticism.
Sexual abuse: Any sexual activity involving a child or young person.
Neglect: Failure to provide food, shelter, medical care, or supervision.
Warning Signs
Unexplained injuries or frequent absences.
Extreme withdrawal, anxiety or fearfulness.
Inappropriate sexual behaviour or knowledge.
Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or unattended health needs.
Code of Conduct
REQUIRED BEHAVIOURS
Treat all children and young people with respect and dignity.
Be a positive role model at all times.
Avoid being alone with a child or young person.
Use appropriate language and behaviour.
PROHIBITED BEHAVIOURS
Physical punishment or aggressive verbal language.
Inappropriate touching or gestures.
Taking or sharing photos or videos without consent.
Engaging in any form of bullying, harassment or discrimination.
Sharing images or personal information of children online.
Refer to the full Code of Conduct and Child Safety Policy documents provided in your tournament pack.
Behaviour Expectations
COACHES
Focus on enjoyment, development, and fair play.
Avoid yelling, ridiculing, or over-coaching.
Promote respect for officials and opponents.
Provide equal playing opportunities.
PARENTS AND GUARDIANS
Encourage rather than pressure children.
Cheer positively and respect all players and officials.
Do not coach or interfere from the sidelines.
Support the spirit of the game above the result.
SPECTATORS
Respect referees and other officials.
Do not use violence, flares, or abusive language.
Do not enter the field of play without authority.
Promote fair play and inclusion.
Venue and Physical Safety
Conduct regular venue inspections for hazards.
Ensure areas such as pitches, walkways, and toilets are safe and supervised.
Monitor who enters and exits the venue—only authorised adults should have unsupervised access to children.
Reporting Concerns
HIf you suspect harm or witness concernting behaviour:
Immediate danger:
📞 Call emergency services (000).
Other concerns:
📞 Report to Tournament Director, Victoria Morton – 0417 597 643
Provide details:
Include names, descriptions of the concern, and any actions already taken.
Confidentiality:
All reports will be handled with discretion. Support is available for those who report concerns in good faith.
If unsure whether something should be reported, err on the side of caution and speak confidentially with the Tournament Director.
Summary of key points
✅ Child safety is everyone's responsibility.
✅ Learn the signs of abuse or neglect.
✅ Follow the Code of Conduct at all times.
✅ Report any concerns promptly and appropriately.
✅ Help make the Hobart Cup a safe, respectful, and inclusive event for all.
Contact Information
For any questions or further information, please contact Tournament Director, Victoria Morton, on 0417 597 643 or via email to thehobartcup@bigpond.com