Diocesan Safeguarding CouncilThe Diocesan Safeguarding Council of the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle plays a vital advisory role in supporting the Bishop and Trustees in fulfilling their canonical and civil safeguarding responsibilities.

About

The Diocesan Safeguarding Council of the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle plays a vital advisory role in supporting the Bishop and Trustees in fulfilling their canonical and civil safeguarding responsibilities. Established under the Diocesan Governance Framework, the Council provides independent, strategic advice on safeguarding matters concerning children and vulnerable adults across diocesan agencies and parishes.

Its core function is to ensure that diocesan operations align with legal, ethical, and Church standards. The Safeguarding Council promotes the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults within the Diocese from abuse or exploitation, develops the Diocesan capacity to be a genuine, innovative and supportive presence for those who have been affected by abuse, and rebuilds a sense of trust within the Diocesan faithful and the broader community about the Diocese’s commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. It also reviews and approves safeguarding policies, monitors the performance of the Office of Safeguarding, and ensures financial oversight of safeguarding initiatives, including the Bishop’s Healing Fund.

The Safeguarding Council is already established and has been in place for a number of years. It will continue in the new structure, with a review to align its practices and integrate into the synodal governance model in 2026.

This Council meets at least four times annually and is supported by standing invitees including senior diocesan staff. It currently has standing committees for oversight, claims resolution, and healing and support.

Through its work, the Council strengthens the Diocese’s commitment to creating safe, respectful, and responsive environments for all, especially the most vulnerable.