As a volunteer-run club and 2 Star Club Changer, Football Australia has identified West Canberra Wanderers as a club that believes in turning policy into practice, grounded in the lived values of respect, fairness, and accountability. Setting a strong example in community sport, West Canberra Wanderers is embedding safeguarding and inclusive practices across every level of the club.
A cornerstone of the club’s efforts is the development of a digital Club Handbook and Induction package. This comprehensive resource outlines codes of conduct, complaint pathways, and clear expectations around respectful behaviour. Currently under consultation with a cross-section of the club community, the handbook will be distributed to all new and returning members at the start of each season and reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and relevant, aligning with best practices and member feedback.
To further enhance safeguarding, the club appointed a qualified Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO), with professional skills well-aligned to the role. The MPIO has been introduced via seminars, the club’s website, and social media. A dedicated safeguarding section has been added to the club’s website, offering direct contact details, relevant policy links, and educational resources from Capital Football, Football Australia, and Play by the Rules. A dedicated email inbox has also been established to manage enquiries and feedback confidentially and efficiently.
Recognising that each team and cohort may face unique challenges, West Canberra Wanderers has also introduced team-specific induction processes. These help coaches, players, and team managers clearly understand their roles and responsibilities from the outset. The club has held a number of targeted high-performance seminars tailored to specific groups, ensuring that players and support staff are equipped for a positive and successful start to their season.
The club has also published its first Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Policy, aligned to industry and local standards. This is supported by a D&I Statement available publicly on the club website.
Safeguarding has become a standing item on committee meeting agendas for West Canberra Wanderers, ensuring continuous attention and accountability. Looking to the future, West Canberra Wanderers FC plans to deepen its commitment by launching a formal Club Induction Program in 2026 for all members and staff. New policies around social media and photography are also in development, alongside educational sessions on bystander intervention, youth protection, and inclusive practices.
West Canberra Wanderers is committed to creating a culture where all members feel safe, seen, and supported. The club seeks to bring its safeguarding policies to life through actions that reflect its core values and welcomes community feedback, and encourages new volunteers to join in building an even safer and more inclusive club for everyone.
Words: Football Australia
