Safeguarding as mission

Webinar presented by Gabrielle Hunt, Research Associate, Institute of Child Protection Studies, 5 August 2025

This webinar examined prevention of child sexual abuse by changing practice from simple protocol to embedding in mission. Using data from interviews with leaders in faith-based settings (as part of her PhD research), Gabrielle shared what she learned about current challenges and weaknesses in safeguarding practices in religious settings. She also suggested positive practices that reframe safeguarding as central to the mission and role of religious organisations.

• Webinar recording: Safeguarding as mission
• Presentation notes of webinar
• Infographic of the study
• Research summary
• Published paper: "Just tick the box and move on": Australian Christian religious leaders reflect on safeguarding practices in their settings
• Published paper: The prevalence of child sexual abuse perpetrated by leaders or other adults in religious organizations in Australia