Child Safety

Beaconsfield Baptist Church is committed to ensuring that all children and young people who participate in the life and ministry of the church are safe, respected, and protected from harm.

BBC has zero tolerance for any type of abuse and harm to children and young people.

BBC’s commitment to child safety and wellbeing is a biblical, pastoral, moral and legal responsibility.

Scriptural Foundations for Protecting Children

Our commitment to child safety is grounded in Scripture.

The call to protect children comes first from God’s Word.  The Bible consistently commands God’s people to protect the weak, care for the vulnerable, and guard those unable to defend themselves.

At BBC, we believe:

All children are precious to God.

  • “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)
  • “If anyone causes one of these little ones – those who believe in me- to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6)

The vulnerable must be protected.

  • “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” (Psalm 82:3–4)
  • “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:8–9)
  • “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” (Isaiah 1:17)

Church leaders are accountable before God.

  • “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them – not because you must, but because you are willing…not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:2–3)
  • “Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach…he must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect.” (1 Timothy 3:1–5)

For BBC, safeguarding children is not only a legal requirement but a biblical mandate. Leaders are accountable before God to create an environment where children are safe, valued, and nurtured in Christ.

Reporting a Concern, Complaint or Incident

BBC encourages the reporting of concerns, complaints and incidents, even where it is not mandated by law, recognising our responsibility to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

BBC is committed to acting promptly to ensure safety, care and support within our ministries.

All reports are handled confidentially and shared only on a need-to-know basis, in accordance with legal and safety obligations.

Anyone at BBC who receives a concern will act to ensure it is reported and responded to appropriately.

What can I report?

BBC welcomes reports on any matter including:

  • allegations or concerns about misconduct by staff or volunteers
  • suspected or actual breaches of a BBC Code of Conduct or other policies
  • concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child or young person
  • disclosures or suspicions of abuse or harm
  • concerning behaviour (including boundary issues or grooming)
  • privacy breaches
  • incidents or accidents
  • health and safety issues
  • any other matter of concern or complaint in the context of BBC ministries

BBC takes all reports seriously and responds with transparency, accountability, discretion, timeliness, fairness, pastoral care and a child-focused approach.

How can I report a concern or complaint?

If a child is in immediate danger, contact Police on 000.

You can report a concern or make a complaint by:

  1. Speaking with a BBC Safe Church Person (or staff member), who will assist you to make a report in accordance with BBC’s Child Safety Complaints Handling and Reporting Procedures; or
  2. Submitting a written report via:
    • an online form, or
    • email to report@beaconsfieldbaptist.com.au

If a child discloses a concern to you, you must submit a report on their behalf.

Child Safety Resources