PSEAH Policy

Introduction

The Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA) is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all members, participants, staff, volunteers, partners, and guests. This policy aims to prevent and address issues related to Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) with respect and understanding of regional cultural differences.

Scope

This policy applies to all individuals associated with PAYA, including but not limited to members, employees, volunteers, participants, board members, and partners. It covers all aspects of our operations, including programs, events, communications, and online platforms.

Cultural Sensitivity

PAYA recognises the diversity and cultural richness of the Pacific region. We respect the diversity of approaches and understandings regarding topics of a sexual nature in our various communities. It is our responsibility to navigate these with care and understanding.

Definitions

Age of Consent

For the purposes of this policy, the age of consent is 16 years of age. However, please be aware and adhere to the laws within your respective jurisdiction or that where the PAYA event or activity is taking place. All sexual activity with someone under the age of consent is considered to be sexual abuse.

Consent

Consent is required to be an affirmative non-verbal or verbal indication, and in the absence of any other indications which a reasonable person in the circumstances would interpret as demonstrating an unwillingness or inability to provide proper affirmative consent.

Sexual Exploitation

Any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust for sexual purposes. It includes profiting monetarily, socially, or politically from sexual exploitation of another.

Sexual Abuse

The actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions. It covers sexual offences including but not limited to rape and sexual assault.

Sexual Harassment

Any unwelcome sexual advance or an unwelcome request for sexual favours, or engagement in other unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, where a reasonable person, having regard to all the circumstances, would have anticipated the possibility that the person harassed would be offended, humiliated or intimidated. This can be obvious or indirect, physical or verbal, repeated or one-off and perpetrated by any person towards any other person.

Policy Principles

  1. Education and Awareness: PAYA Inc. is dedicated to ensuring its employees, volunteers, members and more promote a safe and respectful environment, while considering cultural sensitivities.

  2. Reporting Mechanism: PAYA will establish a confidential and culturally sensitive reporting mechanism. This will include options for anonymous reporting and will ensure that victims feel safe and supported when coming forward.

  3. Reporting and Response:

    Immediate Action: Any reports of PSEAH will be taken seriously. PAYA Inc. will ensure that immediate action is taken to protect the victim, and if necessary, involve law enforcement.

    Confidentiality: PAYA Inc. will maintain strict confidentiality throughout the reporting and investigative process. The privacy of all parties involved will be respected, especially given the small and tight-knit community of the organisation.

    Investigation: PAYA Inc. will conduct thorough and impartial investigations into reported incidents. This will be done in a way that respects cultural norms and ensures the safety and wellbeing of the victim and alleged perpetrator.

  4. Accountability and Consequences:

    Zero Tolerance: PAYA Inc. has a zero-tolerance policy for PSEAH. Confirmed perpetrators will face consequences, which may include removal from events, loss of membership, bans from future involvement, or legal action as appropriate.

  5. Support:

    Victim Support: PAYA Inc. is committed to providing support for victims. This includes access to counselling, medical support, legal advice, and other assistance as needed.

    Cultural Support: Recognising the importance of cultural norms, PAYA Inc. will work to provide culturally sensitive support for victims while ensuring their comfort and wellbeing.

  6. Training:

    Cultural Competence: PAYA Inc. will ensure that its members from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds understand this policy and the reporting procedure to ensure access for all members.

  7. Review

    This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and effective. Feedback from the community and stakeholders will be considered in any policy updates.