Child Safety

At BIOTech Futures, the safety and well-being of every student is our highest priority. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants.

Our Commitment

Student safety is at the heart of everything we do.

BIOTech Futures works with high school students across Australia and internationally through mentoring, workshops, and our annual symposium. We are committed to:

  • Protecting children and young people from harm
  • Creating an environment where students feel safe, respected, and supported
  • Responding promptly and appropriately to any concerns
  • Meeting the University of Sydney's child safety policies and procedures
  • Following the Australian National Principles for Child Safe Organisations

Child Safety

Our Child Safety Measures

Working With Children Checks

All mentors, staff, and volunteers who work directly with students are required to hold valid Working With Children Checks or equivalent screening where applicable.

Training and Code of Conduct

All program personnel complete child safety training and agree to follow the University of Sydney Code of Conduct and BIOTech Futures behavioural expectations.

Supervision

Students are supervised throughout all program activities, with multiple adults present during events and active monitoring of mentoring sessions.

Online Safety

Virtual sessions are conducted on approved platforms using waiting rooms, passwords, and staff oversight. Private communication outside the program is not permitted.

Behaviour Expectations

Bullying, harassment, discrimination, and inappropriate conduct are not tolerated. All participants are expected to treat one another with respect.

Privacy and Data Protection

Personal information is collected only when necessary and stored securely on approved systems with access restricted to authorised staff.

Medical and Emergency Preparedness

Emergency contacts and relevant medical information are collected in advance, and staff follow established procedures to respond to incidents.

Reporting Concerns

Any concerns about child safety can be reported to BIOTech Futures or the University of Sydney Child Safety Services for prompt investigation.

Continuous Review

Our child safety practices are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain effective, up to date, and aligned with current legislation and best practice.

Child Safety

Reporting Concerns

If a student, parent, teacher, mentor, or community member has any concerns about child safety, they are encouraged to contact us immediately.

BIOTech Futures Contact

General enquiries:
info@biotechfutures.org

University of Sydney Child Safety Services

Email:
child-safety@sydney.edu.au

Emergency

If a child is in immediate danger, call 112 (international standard emergency number) or 000 if in Australia.

Further Questions

  • No. Communication must occur only through approved BIOTech Futures channels.

  • Only where parent or guardian consent has been provided.

  • All concerns are taken seriously, documented, and escalated according to University procedures.