DFAT's Child Protection Policy is underpinned by the following principles. The principles reflect DFAT's commitment to the Commonwealth Child Safe Framework [PDF] and the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations [PDF].

Principle 1: Zero tolerance for child exploitation, abuse and harm

DFAT has zero tolerance for child exploitation, abuse and harm in all aspects of its work. This means zero tolerance for acts of child exploitation, abuse and harm and zero tolerance for inaction to prevent, report or respond to child exploitation, abuse and harm.

Principle 2: Prioritise the best interests of the child

DFAT and partners must ensure that all actions and decisions prioritise children's rights, safety and wellbeing and are underpinned by a 'do no harm' approach. Responses to incidents must be trauma-informed, child-centred and enable access to support services.

Principle 3: Promote inclusion and equity and recognise diversity

DFAT and partners must be welcoming and inclusive of all children regardless of their circumstances, abilities, sex, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, age, displacement, and social, economic and cultural backgrounds.  Efforts must address barriers to participation, protection, reporting and support such as language, safety, discrimination and accessibility.

Principle 4: Prioritise prevention

DFAT and partners must be proactive in promoting the safety of children and minimising risks to children. Actions to protect children must be embedded in policies, programs, recruitment, staff training and daily operations to minimise risks and protect children, both in physical and online spaces.

Principle 5: Adopt an empowering and participatory approach

DFAT and partners must empower children to understand their rights, express concerns, and participate in decisions affecting them in ways that are age-appropriate, voluntary and safe. Families and communities must be engaged as partners in promoting child safety and wellbeing, fostering trust and enhancing collaboration.

Principle 6: Reporting incidents is mandatory

DFAT requires mandatory and immediate reporting of child protection concerns related to DFAT business (funded and unfunded). Reporting and response mechanisms must be clear, accessible (including to children) and confidential. Reporting mechanisms must ensure that those who raise concerns are protected and that concerns are addressed effectively and in a timely and appropriate manner.

Principle 7: Embed safeguarding into organisational culture and leadership

DFAT and partners must embed child protection in governance, leadership and institutional culture. A strong safeguarding culture requires clear accountability, leadership commitment, investment of resources and continuous review and improvement of policies and practices.