1. Introduction

This Member Protection Policy aims to ensure that every person involved in Elite Development Foundation, including athletes, coaches, officials, and parents can participate in an environment that is safe, respectful, and free from inappropriate behaviour.

This policy aligns with the Basketball ACT Member Protection Policy and the National Integrity Framework.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all members and participants while engaged in club activities, including:

• Local training sessions and high-performance development programs.
• Official Basketball ACT competitions and matches.
• Travel events, including interstate tournaments and overnight camps.

3. Child Safety and Protection

The club is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. We adhere to the ACT Child Safe Standards and the Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Act 2011.

• Background Checks: All coaches, managers, and volunteers must hold a valid ACT Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) registration.
• Conduct: Adults must maintain professional boundaries. Physical contact should only occur when necessary for skill development and must be performed in an open and transparent manner.
• Reporting: Any allegation of child abuse or neglect will be reported to the relevant ACT authorities (ACT Policing or Child and Youth Protection Services) in accordance with mandatory reporting obligations.

4. Anti-Discrimination and Harassment

In accordance with the ACT Discrimination Act 1991, the club does not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying.

• No member shall be treated less favorably based on race, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or religion.
• High-Performance Standard: While high-performance environments are demanding, coaching methods must remain constructive. Verbal abuse or “tough love” that crosses into bullying or psychological harassment is prohibited.

5. Travel and Overnight Stays

For travel events and away competitions, the following safeguards apply:

• Supervision: A minimum of two cleared adults must be present for all group travel.
• Rooming: Coaches/adults must not share a room with a minor.
• Communication: Parents must be provided with a full itinerary and emergency contact details for all travel events.

6. Health and Safety

• Concussion Protocol: The club follows the Basketball ACT and Sports Medicine Australia concussion guidelines. Any player suspected of a concussion must be removed from play and receive medical clearance before returning.
• Illegal Substances: The use of illicit drugs or the provision of alcohol to minors is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate disciplinary action.

7. Complaint Procedure

The club is committed to a fair and transparent grievance process.

1. Informal Resolution: Where possible, parties are encouraged to resolve disputes through direct discussion.
2. Formal Report: If the matter is serious, a formal complaint should be lodged with the Club’s Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO).
3. Appeals: If a resolution cannot be reached internally, the matter may be referred to an independent mediator or the appropriate sporting tribunal.