Child protection is about keeping children and young people safe from abuse, discrimination and harassment, and protecting them from people who are unsuitable to work with children. This is often a legal requirement, covered by Australian child protection and anti-discrimination laws. It is also an ethical obligation and a very important consideration in meeting 'duty of care' obligations.

Children and young people with special needs are more vulnerable to abuse and discrimination. This may be because of difficulties communicating, behavioural issues or physical limitations. Such people often require different staff-to-participant ratios and greater levels of assistance in achieving competence in sport and recreation activities.