Child Safety &
Wellbeing
The safety and wellbeing of every child and young person at WGDF is our highest priority. This page outlines our commitments, requirements, and procedures for everyone involved in our festival.
Our Commitment to Child Safety
West Gippsland Dance Festival is committed to the safety, participation and empowerment of all children and young people. We have zero tolerance for child abuse and are committed to acting in children's best interests at all times. Our festival is run in accordance with the 11 National Child Safe Standards and Victoria's Child Safe Standards.
AT A GLANCE
Key Requirements for Everyone
These requirements apply to all adults involved in the festival, including committee members, volunteers, dance teachers, parents, and carers.
Working With Children Check
A current WWCC is required for all persons aged 18 and over accessing changeroom areas. Cards must be presented to receive a changeroom pass.
MandatorySign In Required
All adults entering changeroom areas must sign in with their name, their dancer's name, and a contact number. Changeroom passes are issued to verified adults only.
MandatoryParent Helpers — Troupe Weekend
Studios may have no more than 5 approved parent helpers per session during Troupe Weekend. Studios must provide WWCC details for all helpers before the festival begins.
Updated 2026No Photography in Changerooms
No photography, filming, or screen recording of any kind is permitted inside changeroom areas at any time. This applies to all devices including mobile phones.
Strictly EnforcedChangeroom Doors Open
Dressing room doors with solid doors must remain open at all times unless a child or young person is actively changing. A committee member will be present backstage at all times.
RequiredGender Neutral Space
A gender neutral waiting and preparation space is available near the changerooms for any child or young person who requires it. All are welcome.
InclusiveWORKING WITH CHILDREN CHECKS
WWCC Requirements in Detail
Different requirements apply depending on whether you're attending the solo days or Troupe Weekend. Please read both sections carefully.
Studios Entering Troupe Weekend
Studios must submit the details of all adults aged 18 and over who will be accessing changerooms during Troupe Weekend, including their WWCC card numbers, prior to the festival commencing.
- WWCC details submitted to committee before festival
- Maximum 5 approved parent helpers per session
- Changeroom passes issued to verified adults only
- WWCC statuses verified via Services Victoria checker
Solo Festival Days
Any adult aged 18 or over wishing to access changeroom areas during solo days must present a valid WWCC at the check-in desk before entry is permitted.
- WWCC card must be physically presented at check-in
- Changeroom pass issued upon verification
- Random spot checks may be carried out
- No exceptions — including for dance teachers and studio owners
Photography & Filming Rules
PHOTOGRAPHY & FILMING
These rules exist to protect the privacy and safety of all children and young people at our festival.
In Changeroom Areas
- No photography or filming of any kind
- No screen recording within any app
- Applies to all devices including mobile phones, tablets, and cameras
- Applies to all adults including parents, teachers, and volunteers
Audience Filming of Performances
- General audience members may not film or photograph performances
- Professional videography and photography is provided by our official vendor
- Footage and photos are available for purchase after the event
Official Videography
WGDF provides professional video and photo capture of all performances through our official vendor. All recordings are available for purchase by families after the event, ensuring everyone gets high-quality footage safely.
General Festival Photos
Families are welcome to take photos in general festival areas outside of the performance space and changerooms. We ask that you be mindful of other families and children when sharing photos on social media.
NATIONAL CHILD SAFE STANDARDS
Our Policy Aligns With All 11 Standards
WGDF's Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy is written to align with and uphold all 11 National Child Safe Standards.
REPORTING CONCERNS
HOW TO REPORT A CONCERN
WGDF's Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy is written to align with and uphold all 11 National Child Safe Standards.
Ensure immediate safety
If a child is in immediate danger, remove them from the situation and seek assistance immediately.
Report to a Child Safety Officer
Notify any Executive Committee member (President, VP, Secretary, Vice Secretary or Treasurer) as soon as possible.
If abuse is suspected
If you have reasonable belief that physical or sexual abuse has occurred, report directly to Victoria Police. Do not wait.
Cooperate with investigations
All investigations are handled by law enforcement. All adults associated with WGDF must cooperate fully.
Contact the Committee
For any child safety concerns or questions about our policies, reach out to the WGDF committee directly. All Executive Committee members are designated Child Safety Officers.
📧 info@wgdf.com.auIn an emergency or if you believe a child is at immediate risk, call Victoria Police on 000. For child protection concerns, contact the Child Protection Crisis Line on 13 12 78.