Safe Ministry

Safe Ministry

We want everybody in our churches and ministries to be safe. To help keep people safe, we follow the safe ministry practices and procedures of the Presbyterian Church of NSW’s Breaking The Silence program.

What is Breaking The Silence?

Breaking The Silence is the abuse prevention policies and procedures, and a Code of Conduct, that Presbyterian churches in NSW must abide by. It covers both adult and child abuse, including children at risk of harm, reportable conduct, sexual misconduct, and any conduct that breaches the Code of Conduct including domestic violence.

Breaking The Silence applies to all persons holding a position of authority within the church including ministers, home missionaries, deaconesses, licentiates, elders, paid employees, ministry leaders, church workers (whether paid or volunteers), and all those working with children and young people.

Our Leaders and Volunteers

All our ministry leaders and volunteers complete regular Breaking The Silence training. In addition, our kids and youth leaders, and those working in pastoral care related ministries, hold current, verified Working With Children Checks. We are committed to providing a safe space for all and seek to protect the vulnerable at all times, both in our personal conduct and in our ministry practices.

Finding Help

If you would like further information, or would like to raise an issue with a Breaking The Silence representative from church, please contact our office and we’ll put you in touch.

You can also contact the Presbyterian Church’s Conduct Protocol Unit directly on 02 9690 9325. They are available to assist with all matters relating to Breaking The Silence, child protection and safe ministry.