staff code of conduct

1. Purpose

This Code of Conduct sets the standards of professional and ethical behaviour expected of all Melbourne Grappling Academy (MGA) staff, coaches, volunteers, and contractors. Its purpose is to ensure we maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all members, staff, and visitors.

2. Scope

This code applies to all paid and unpaid staff who represent MGA in any capacity, including in‑person, online, at events, and when interacting with members or the public.

3. Mandatory Requirements

  • All staff, coaches, and volunteers must hold and maintain a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC), and provide a copy to MGA prior to commencing any role

  • All staff, coaches, and volunteers must hold and maintain a current First Aid certificate (HLTAID011 or equivalent) and provide a copy to MGA prior to commencing any role

  • Staff and volunteers must complete all required MGA induction, safeguarding, and safety training before commencing duties

  • Failure to maintain a valid WWCC, current First Aid certificate, or other required certifications will result in suspension from duties until compliance is restored

4. Professional Behaviour

  • Act as a positive role model for members at all times

  • Treat all members, colleagues, and visitors with respect, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, ability, or background

  • Follow all MGA policies and procedures, including Safeguarding and Child Protection

  • Maintain appropriate boundaries in all relationships with members, especially children and young people

  • Avoid behaviour that could be perceived as bullying, harassment, discrimination, or abuse

  • Address inappropriate behaviour by others promptly and report it if necessary

5. Coaching & Instruction Standards

  • Ensure all training is conducted in a safe, controlled, and supportive environment

  • Plan and deliver sessions appropriate to the age, size, ability, and experience level of participants

  • Monitor mixed‑gender and mixed‑age partner pairings to ensure comfort and safety

  • Encourage good sportsmanship and positive training behaviours

  • Avoid drills or positions that could cause unnecessary risk or discomfort without a clear, justified training purpose

6. Physical Contact Guidelines

  • Physical contact must be necessary for instruction or safety, explained beforehand, and carried out respectfully

  • Check that members are comfortable with physical contact and respect their right to refuse

  • Be especially mindful of consent and comfort in mixed‑gender and adult‑child interactions

  • Never engage in any form of sexualised behaviour or language with members

7. Communication

  • Use professional and respectful language at all times

  • Communication with junior members must go through their parent/guardian unless unavoidable for safety reasons

  • Avoid private one‑to‑one messaging with junior members on social media or text

  • Refrain from making comments or jokes that could be interpreted as discriminatory, sexual, or offensive

8. Appearance and Presentation

  • Wear clean, appropriate training attire or MGA‑approved uniform when coaching

  • Maintain high personal hygiene standards

  • Present a professional appearance in public and online when representing MGA

9. Health, Safety, and Hygiene

  • Follow all health and safety procedures, including mat cleaning and injury management

  • Conduct regular checks of equipment and training areas before sessions

  • Address unsafe behaviour or conditions immediately

  • Do not coach or train if unwell, or if you have a contagious illness or skin infection

10. Conflicts of Interest

  • Declare any personal or business interests that could conflict with your role at MGA

  • Do not use your position for personal gain at the expense of the gym or its members

11. Social Media and Public Representation

  • Uphold MGA’s reputation in all online activity

  • Do not post or share inappropriate content that could damage the club’s image

  • Obtain consent before posting identifiable images or videos of members, especially children

12. Volunteer Expectations

  • Volunteers are valued members of MGA and must adhere to the same professional, safety, and conduct standards as paid staff

  • Volunteer roles will be clearly defined, and appropriate training and supervision will be provided

  • Volunteers may not undertake duties beyond their defined role without prior approval from MGA management

  • MGA reserves the right to end a volunteer arrangement at any time if conduct expectations are not met

13. Reporting and Accountability

  • Immediately report any safeguarding concerns, breaches of this code, or illegal activities to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) – Tim Trevail

  • If a safeguarding complaint is made against a staff member, MGA will follow the process outlined in the Safeguarding Policy. This includes standing down the staff member on paid leave for the duration of the investigation

  • Cooperate fully with any investigation or review

  • Understand that breaches of this code may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of role or membership

14. Acknowledgement

All staff, coaches, volunteers, and contractors must sign an acknowledgement form confirming they have read, understood, and agree to follow this Code of Conduct.