Whistleblower Protection Policy

Scope

This policy applies to anyone connected with our organisation, including employees, volunteers, contractors, board members, participants, and other stakeholders.

Our Commitment

We expect all representatives of our organisation to act with honesty, integrity, and in accordance with all applicable laws, standards, and ethical obligations.

We encourage people to speak up if they become aware of behaviour that may be unlawful, unethical, unsafe, or inconsistent with our values. We are committed to responding to concerns promptly, fairly, and appropriately.

What Can Be Reported

You are encouraged to raise concerns about serious matters, including but not limited to:

• Abuse, neglect, or harm to individuals

• Breaches of child safety or safeguarding obligations

• Fraud, corruption, or financial misconduct

• Breaches of laws, regulations, or organisational policies

• Risks to health, safety, or the environment

• Criminal activity or unethical behaviour

• Attempts to conceal wrongdoing

Speaking Up

We support and encourage individuals to raise concerns as early as possible so that issues can be addressed and resolved.

Concerns can be raised through appropriate internal reporting channels. Where possible, matters should be reported in good faith using established processes so they can be properly assessed and managed.

Protection from Retaliation

We do not tolerate any form of retaliation against a person who raises a concern in good faith.

Retaliation includes any action that disadvantages, threatens, or harms a person because they have made a report. This may include exclusion, harassment, threats, changes to work conditions, or other unfair treatment.

Any individual who engages in retaliation may be subject to disciplinary action.

If a person believes they have experienced retaliation, they are encouraged to report it so that appropriate action can be taken.

Confidentiality

We will take reasonable steps to protect the identity of individuals who raise concerns, where possible and appropriate.

Information will be handled sensitively and shared only with those who need to know in order to assess and respond to the concern.

Responsibilities

Everyone connected with our organisation has a responsibility to:

• Act ethically and in accordance with the law

• Raise concerns about wrongdoing or risks

• Support a culture of openness, safety, and accountability

• Treat individuals who raise concerns with fairness and respect

How We Respond

All reports are taken seriously and will be assessed and managed in a timely and fair manner.

Where appropriate, we will:

• Investigate the concern

• Take corrective action

• Implement improvements to prevent recurrence

Related Standards and Compliance

This policy aligns with relevant legislation and standards, including:

• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Practice Standards

• NDIS Code of Conduct

• Child safety and safeguarding principles

• Applicable workplace and anti-discrimination laws

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with best practice and regulatory requirements.