Child protection and safety

Your children are likely to see people they do not know out in the community almost daily, for example, in the park, at the supermarket or walking down the street. 

These people are often referred to as strangers, and it’s worth noting that most strangers are regular, nice people. They just aren’t a part of your day-to-day lives, and they have their own friends, families, and priorities.  

It is helpful to understand the reasons children and young people may be at risk of significant harm, including: 

  • domestic and family violence
  • physical, sexual and/or emotional abuse
  • neglect. 

Young children often see the world in simple terms, thinking of people as either 'good' or 'bad'. A large majority (80%) of crimes against children are a product of the people they know rather than a stranger out in the community. As a parent, it is good to have a number of strategies to help protect your child when they may be vulnerable. 

For parents

  • stay alert - there are many distractions in today’s busy world, but nothing is more important than your child’s safety
  • always supervise your child out in public - if you need to step away, either take your child with you or notify another adult who you trust
  • when you arrive at a new location with your child, agree on a meeting point if either of you gets lost
  • allow your child to understand the boundaries of a new area and give them some responsibility of always needing o see you or another responsible, trusted adult at all times
  • always go to the bathroom with your child and wait with them
  • sit beside or very close to your child on public transport
  • explain to your child what physical touching is permitted by others and who those select few people may be. This includes location-based advice like at the doctor’s office with Mum and Dad or in the bath at home as a part of their regular practices.
  • take any discussion around child protection seriously from your child, regardless of how close you may be to the person being accused of something.

For children

  • if someone they do not know wants to talk to them or go somewhere else, tell your child to always check with a parent or trusted adult first.
  • teach them never to leave your set location with a person they do not know
  • if someone they do not know grabs them or touches them, give them the confidence to shout ‘Go away, I do not know you’
  • if they find themselves alone or lost, they should remain in a well-lit, busy area and seek help from an adult at a police station, a school, or from an adult who has children around the same age
  • teach your children to learn your address and phone number as soon as they are able to. 

Impact of domestic violence

Having a supportive family is always beneficial in raising a child. It is important to understand as a parent how much the home environment can affect a child’s life. The impact of violence, abuse or neglect on a child can include:

  • behavioural changes
  • learning or development difficulties
  • physical injuries
  • mental health conditions.

If you, someone you know or your child is experiencing any form of domestic violence, reach out to the NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 656 463). You and your child have the right to be safe in all environments including the home.