Safe Ministry

We're committed to your safety, protection and wellbeing

There is no place for misconduct and abuse at St Stephen’s. The safety, protection, and wellbeing of all children and vulnerable people are a priority.

At St Stephen’s we want to be a place where everyone is loved, cared for, and safe. We believe this reflects God’s own heart. God himself reached out to save us in Christ when we were helpless.

That’s why our Safe Ministry Policy isn’t just a formality—it’s an expression of our deepest convictions, helping to ensure that St Stephen’s is a place where everyone can thrive. This policy is applicable to all staff, leaders, pastors, coordinators, volunteers, trainees, and anyone serving or working on behalf of St Stephen’s.

We also follow a Safe Ministry Policy, as part of the Anglican Diocese of Sydney. We have a local Safe Ministry Representative, who you can contact with any concerns or questions.

To report abuse, please contact the Police (Call 000) or the Office of Safe Ministry within the Diocese of Sydney.

Raise a concern

No matter how minor your concern seems, you will be heard, taken seriously, and kept confidential. Report your concerns to our Safe Ministry Representative.

Email our Safe Ministry Rep

Reporting Guide

Are you unsure who to speak to, what is reportable or how to report abuse? Please read this document to help guide you through the process, when you suspect abuse or disclosure.

Abuse Report Guide
Make a report

Call the 1800 774 945 report line or report in writing by secure form or email. All reports are acted on promptly. In an emergency call 000

Get help now

How we care + protect?

As part of the Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney, St Stephen’s follows the Safe Ministry Guidelines, which set out the standards expected from our leaders, workers and volunteers, specifically as they affect children, youth and vulnerable people.

All staff and any volunteer working with Kids and Youth must have:

Play Your Part: We would love as many people as possible across church to have their Working With Children Check (WWCC) done. The more people with a WWCC and trained in Safe Ministry, the stronger our community of care and protection becomes.

Who is vulnerable?

The largest vulnerable population at St Stephen’s are our children and youth. Therefore it is critical that we pay careful attention to ‘Child Protection’.

But there are others who are also vulnerable. People who may not be able to protect themselves from harm or coercion due to their particular circumstances of age, disability or past trauma. We consider them as vulnerable people and so are especially vigilant to see them cared for.

Our Safe Ministry Rep
Our Safe Ministry Rep

Kerith Massey (pictured) is our Safe Ministry Representative. If you have any queries or concerns please email Kerith, your ministry leader or Baden our lead Pastor.

As part of the Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney, St Stephen's follows the Safe Ministry Guidelines which sets out the standards expected from our leaders, workers and volunteers, specifically as they affect children, youth and vulnerable people.