Policies

Code of Conduct

All players, officials, coaches, volunteers, and supporters are expected to uphold the values of the Drouin Hawks. The Code of Conduct sets out the standard of behaviour expected at all club activities including matches, training, and social events.

Players

• Treat all participants — teammates, opponents, officials, and supporters — with respect.
• Play by the rules and in the spirit of the game.
• Respect the decisions of umpires and officials; do not argue or abuse.
• Control your language — no foul, racist, sexist, or discriminatory language at any time.
• Avoid conduct that could harm others (e.g. dangerous play or abuse of substances).
• Care for and respect all equipment and grounds.

Coaches & Officials

• Demonstrate and promote the club values in all interactions.
• Prioritise the wellbeing and development of players over winning.
• Ensure training and match environments are safe, inclusive, and positive.
• Comply with AFL, Gippsland Football League, and club by-laws at all times.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries when working with juniors.

Supporters & Parents

• Encourage positive behaviour from players on the field — never pressure or abuse.
• Respect umpires, officials, and opposition supporters.
• Model the behaviour you want players to display.

Child Safety Policy

Drouin Football & Netball Club is committed to the safety, participation, and empowerment of all children and young people. The club adopts the AFL Child Safe Environments guidelines and relevant Victorian legislation.

• All adults working with minors (coaches, team managers, volunteers) must hold a current Working With Children Check (WWCC).
• No adult should be alone with a junior player in a non-public setting.
• All reasonable concerns about the safety of a child must be reported promptly. Serious concerns must be referred to the Child Safeguarding Unit in collaboration with Gippsland League and AFL Victoria.
• The club maintains a Child Safety Risk Register updated annually by the committee.
• Photographic or video content of minors requires parental consent before publication on club channels.

Member Protection Policy

The club is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and harassment-free environment for every member regardless of gender, age, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other attribute.

• Harassment, bullying, intimidation, and discrimination are not tolerated in any form.
• Any member who experiences or witnesses such behaviour should report it to the club’s Code of Conduct Coordinator (President and Secretary).
• Complaints are treated confidentially, investigated fairly, and resolved in a timely manner.
• Victimisation of a person making a complaint is itself a breach of this policy.

Complaints Process

1. Informal resolution — The Coordinator facilitates a discussion between parties where appropriate.
2. Formal process — If unresolved, a formal investigation is conducted; the league may be notified where required.
3. League referral — Serious or unresolved matters are referred to the Gippsland Football League and, where applicable, AFL Victoria.

Natural justice and privacy must be respected throughout. All complaints and outcomes should be documented.

Social Media Policy

The club recognises the importance of social media for community connection. The following guidelines apply to all club members posting about the club.

• Do not post content that could embarrass, harm, or bring the club, league, or AFL into disrepute.
• No derogatory comments about opponents, umpires, officials, or other clubs.
• Do not share images or information about minors without parental consent.
• Official club accounts are managed by authorised committee members only.
• Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action under the Code of Conduct.

Alcohol & Responsible Service Policy

The club operates under a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) licence. The following apply at all club functions and events:

• No alcohol is to be served to persons under 18 years of age — valid photo ID is required when age is in doubt.
• Intoxicated persons will not be served and may be asked to leave.
• Food and non-alcoholic beverages must be available at all events where alcohol is served.
• All bar staff and volunteers involved in alcohol service must hold a current RSA certificate.
• The club will not facilitate or condone unsafe transport after alcohol consumption. Safe-get-home options are encouraged at all events.

Concussion & Head Injury Policy

The club follows the AFL’s If in Doubt, Sit Them Out policy for all head injury and concussion management.

• Any player suspected of concussion must be immediately removed from play or training.
• A player suspected of concussion may not return to the same session under any circumstances.
• Return-to-play requires written medical clearance from a registered medical practitioner.
• Coaches and team managers are responsible for monitoring player welfare and enforcing this policy.

Complaints & Contact

To raise a concern or request a full copy of any policy document, please contact the club secretary:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 0499 304 208

All enquiries will be treated confidentially.