The Missionary Society of St Columban in Oceania is committed to fostering communities of safeguarding that uphold the dignity and rights of every person, especially children, young people, and adults at risk. Across Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, safeguarding is a foundational expression of our mission, our faith, and our responsibility to those we serve.
We promote open, honest, and culturally appropriate communication so that families, communities, and children are informed, involved, and heard.
We actively seek ways to empower children and vulnerable persons to speak up, participate in decisions affecting their safety, and report concerns without fear.
All Columban members, employees, associates, and volunteers across Oceania share responsibility for creating safe environments. Each person is expected to model safe behaviours, uphold professional and pastoral boundaries, comply with safeguarding policies and procedures, and contribute positively to a culture of vigilance, accountability, and respect.
The Society maintains a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of abuse, exploitation, neglect, or misconduct. All concerns, disclosures, knowledge, or suspicions of abuse, past or present, are acted upon promptly, sensitively, and in accordance with civil law.
The Society complies in Australia with the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards (2022) and the Universal Guidelines Framework of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors (2023) throughout the Region.
Where any person may be in immediate danger, we contact the appropriate authorities without delay.
We encourage all members of our communities to identify and report hazards, concerns, or opportunities to strengthen safeguarding practice.
We are committed to continuous improvement and to listening attentively to the voices and experiences of children, survivors, families, and communities.
For more information, please contact the Regional Safeguarding Coordinator at professionalstandards@columban.org.au
