The Presbyterian Church of Australia is committed to ensuring that a safe environment is established and maintained for all persons associated with the Church and for those accessing its services, especially children. 

As a church we are committed to the implementation of the Child Safe Standards and the National Safe Ministry framework to: 

1. Ensure the safety and well-being of all children involved in its activities. 
2. Implement policies and procedures to safeguard children from child abuse or harm including emotional, physical or sexual abuse or neglect. 
3. Refuse to tolerate any behaviour that might result in child abuse or harm.

It also recognises that there are people considered persons of concern (POC) who wish to be part of a church community and churches that would seek to support them. While the needs of the POC are considered, and we are convinced that forgiveness and repentance are possible because Jesus came to die for us, even when we were still His enemies, ultimately we must prioritise keeping children and vulnerable persons safe. 

What is a person of concern? 

Within PCNSW, a person of concern (POC) refers to a person who is the subject of charges or convictions relating to sexual offences; or has been placed on a Register of Sexual Offenders; or has had their Working with Children Check refused or suspended; or is the subject of credible allegations of behaviour with children or vulnerable people.  

The CPU has developed the following resources to support congregations where POCs wish to be part of a church community.  Please contact cpu@jerichoroad.org.au if you require any of these resources: 

1. POC Guidelines 
2. BTS 2024 – Safety and Support Agreement template 
3. CPU risks management matrix for POCs

If you have any questions about POCs or unsure about whether a situation needs to be reported, please contact the CPU Director on 02 9690 9325.