Creating a Safe and Positive Environment for Every Child

At The Nest Climbing Gym, the safety, well-being, and happiness of every child who walks through our doors are our absolute highest priority. We are committed to providing a physically and emotionally safe, respectful, and empowering environment where children can thrive, learn, and discover the joy of climbing

Our Core Principles

• Zero Tolerance: We have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Any concerns are taken seriously and acted upon immediately.

• Child-First Approach: All decisions and actions we take regarding children prioritize their best interests above all else.

• Safe Environment: We are dedicated to providing an environment where children feel respected, heard, and protected.

• Open Communication: We encourage open communication about any child protection concerns and assure all individuals that reports will be handled with sensitivity, urgency, and discretion.

How We Ensure Child Safety (Our Practices in Action)

• Vetted & Trained Staff:

• All our staff and volunteers undergo rigorous background checks, including Working With Children Checks, and receive mandatory, ongoing training in child protection, first aid, and emergency procedures.

• They are trained to act professionally, respect boundaries, and serve as positive role models.

• Clear Code of Conduct:

• We uphold a strict Child Protection Code of Conduct that clearly outlines expected and prohibited behaviours for all staff, volunteers, and visitors. This ensures consistent, high standards across our gym.

• Key elements include appropriate physical contact (only when necessary for instruction/safety and observable), respectful communication, and a strict 'two-adult rule' during sensitive activities like harness fitting.

• Robust Supervision & Facility Design:

• Our gym is designed with open spaces and clear sightlines to maximise natural supervision.

• We utilise CCTV cameras in public areas (excluding private spaces) to monitor activity, reviewed by authorised personnel for safety and security.

• We maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios for all programs and activities, ensuring active and vigilant supervision.

• Designated Child Protection Officer (CPO):

  • Our designated Child Protection Officer (CPO) is Eliza Brazel, Gym Manager. The CPO is the central point of contact for all child protection concerns and is responsible for ensuring our policies are followed and reports are actioned appropriately, including liaison with external authorities.

• Reporting & Disciplinary Procedures:

• We have clear, documented procedures for reporting any concerns, suspicions, or disclosures of abuse. All reports are taken seriously, investigated thoroughly, and handled with strict confidentiality.

• Any breaches of our Code of Conduct result in immediate and appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment and referral to law enforcement.

• We protect individuals who make good-faith reports from any form of retaliation.

For Parents & Guardians

• We encourage parents and guardians to familiarize themselves with our policies and actively participate in creating a safe community.

• Your presence is welcomed and encouraged, especially during inductions.

• Please feel free to speak to any of our staff or directly to our CPO if you ever have a question or concern.

Our Commitment to Transparency & Continuous Improvement

• Our Child Protection Code of Conduct and all related policies are reviewed annually (or sooner if necessary) to ensure they remain effective and compliant with the latest legislation and best practices.

• We foster an open culture where staff, children, and parents feel comfortable raising concerns and providing feedback without fear.

If you have any concerns regarding child safety, please do not hesitate to contact our Child Protection Officer directly at:

• CPO Name: Eliza Brazel

• CPO Email Address: eliza@climbthenest.com.au

• CPO Phone Number: 0481313749

You can also download our full Child Protection Code of Conduct [Link to PDF download]

Read our full Disciplinary Policy [Link to PDF download]

Learn more about our Training, Support, and Supervision Policy [Link to PDF download]