Member protection describes the practices and procedures that are put in place within sport organisations to protect their members. The FA Member Protection framework and related policies aim to ensure that core values and positive behaviours are maintained. The Member Protection Framework assists in ensuring that every person involved in football in Australia is treated with respect and dignity, and is kept safe and protected from abuse, bullying and harassment and discrimination.
MEMBER PROTECTION INFORMATION OFFICER (MPIO)
MPIOs are the point of contact at Clubs, Associations and Referee Branches for participants, volunteers or parents with member protection enquiries or complaints. In many clubs, it is also the MPIO who manages the club’s Working with Children Check responsibilities.
Football NSW requires all Clubs, Associations and Referee Branches to have an MPIO. All MPIOs must be registered with their club in Play Football or the relevant online registration platform for insurance purposes.
To contact the FSC MPIO email admin@footballsouthcoast.com. The MPIOs for FSC are:
- Danielle Forster
- Martin Rowney
Role of the MPIO
As the main point of contact for enquiries and complaints relating to member protection, the MPIO should be approachable and have good listening and communication skills.
MPIO’s are impartial and do not mediate or investigate complaints. Complaints should be managed by a suitable person appointed by the Club to manage complaints, this can be a nominated Committee Member or independent person. Where there is a conflict of interest, the Club President or Committee can appoint an independent person to manage the complaint.
MPIO Online Course – Play by the Rules – Making Sport inclusive, safe and fair