Beyond cheering from the sidelines, parents help promote a culture of respect, safety, and enjoyment within the club.
The Parent Code of Conduct helps set clear expectations for how parents can support their child’s development while contributing to a welcoming and inclusive club environment. The key elements in the parent code of conduct include how to take an active role in the child’s sport participation, prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children, uphold the integrity of sport and role model appropriate behaviour.
To provide clarity, the code includes specific examples of behaviours that align with these values, as well as actions that go against them. These examples help parents understand how to best support their child and the wider sporting community. While the code offers a strong foundation, clubs are encouraged to tailor it to fit their specific needs and community.
Binding parents to the code of conduct
There are various ways you can ensure your parents have read and acknowledged their commitment to the code of conduct. Consider how your constitution defines who is a member of your club or association. If there are parents who are not club members (e.g. through being registered participants or volunteers) then education is key and formal disciplinary action might not be possible.
- Ask parents to read and sign a printed or online copy.
- Include the code of conduct your online registration platform for parents registering as volunteers.
- Provide a copy of the code of conduct in welcome packs for new parents and families.
You should also ensure that your committee passes a resolution to adopt the codes of conduct so that, if it is ever required, you have the option to take disciplinary action under your constitution on the basis of a breach of club or association endorsed code of conduct.
Please note: If your sport had adopted the National Integrity Framework or if your state or national sport organisation has Safeguarding Children & Young People and Member Protection Policies that your club or association has adopted, ensure your coaches are aware of their responsibilities and reporting oblogations under those policies. The information in the template is not intended as a substitute for legal or other professional advice and you can edit the template to further align with your club or association's values and existing policies.