Code of Conduct for Caring for Children

The Catholic Church values children as an important part of its life and teaches of the need to respect their dignity. Children’s encounters with adults in the Church can have lasting consequences. It is important for the formation of children that our encounters with them affirm them and create a positive experience of the Church.

The Code is for all those who work or volunteer with children within an agency or parish of the Archdiocese and is intended to support and underpin the pastoral role of priests, religious, pastoral associates, pastoral workers, parishioners and other volunteers and promote an environment in which the dignity and safety of children is paramount.

The Code does not apply to the Catholic Education Office (CEOM) and to Catholic systematic schools within the Archdiocese which are covered by CEOM policies. It also does not apply to activities where the child is under the direct care and supervision of a parent or guardian such as when children attend a social gathering after Mass with a parent.

The Code otherwise applies throughout the Archdiocese to all persons who have or may be expected to have contact with children in the course of any parish or diocesan activities. It applies to priests, religious, pastoral associates, pastoral workers, parishioners, volunteers, visitors, employees and contractors and covers any activity involving children conducted or organised by or under the auspices of a parish or agency of the Archdiocese conducted by persons or groups using the parish or diocesan property.

Please use the links on the right of this page to download a copy of the Code and supporting documents and forms.