Changes to social media age requirements came into effect on 10 December, restricting under 16s from creating or maintaining accounts on major platforms. These changes affect how many organisations communicate with young people online.

To support organisations in responding to this shift, Kooyoora has developed a practical fact sheet outlining what the new regulations mean and how to apply safe, transparent communication practices. The resource includes clear guidelines, consent considerations, case studies, and tools to help organisations navigate digital communication with confidence.

Creating a child safe culture requires more than policies and compliance; it involves a deliberate shift in how organisations think, act, and support the children in their care.

This article by Kim Porter explores a practical framework built on three elements: Mindset, Skillset and Toolset, and shows how each one contributes to a genuinely preventative culture.

To help organisations put these ideas into practice, we have also developed Listen Up: A Guide to Supporting Children’s Voices and Strengthening Your Organisational Culture, a practical resource with strategies and tools to help you build an environment where children are truly heard.

In 2025, the Kooyoora team spent a significant amount of time on the road, travelling across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific to meet with the people we serve.

From major cities to regional and remote communities, staff travelled thousands of kilometres to sit face to face with individuals seeking redress, deliver training, attend conferences and take part in key gatherings across church and community sectors. Our 2025 Kooyoora Staff Travel Map shows the breadth of this work and the many places where conversations, learning and trust building took place throughout the year.

Cultural safety is central to trust, access and justice, and remains critical to Kooyoora’s safeguarding work. As part of this commitment, CEO Fiona Boyle participated in the Victorian Provincial Walkabout 2025, an eight day journey created by the Anglican Church to deepen understanding of Victoria’s colonial history and the ongoing impacts on First Peoples. This followed Kooyoora’s participation in a previous Walkabout held in the Northern Territory in 2024.

The 2025 journey, organised by Reverend Canon Shannon Smith and Ken Hutton, executive officer to the Archbishop of Melbourne, was undertaken in response to the work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission and supports deeper learning through place-based engagement, community connection and truth telling.

During the festive season organisations are often caught up in planning end of year functions, finalising projects, and setting the stage for the new year. While these events offer a chance to celebrate achievements and foster connection, they also present unique challenges, particularly around safeguarding, workplace conduct, and support for individuals affected by trauma.

The holiday period can be a time of heightened stress and reflection, and it’s essential for organisations to take proactive steps to create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.

Photo taken at the Kooyoora Christmas Party 2025 :-)