By Fiona Boyle (Kooyoora CEO)

The area of professional standards and safeguarding is, without doubt, complex. It is essential that ongoing learning, collaboration, and support are prioritised when working in these areas. At Kooyoora, we’ve had the privilege of connecting with professionals in both New Zealand and England, sharing our experiences and learning from theirs. These exchanges—whether through in-person visits or by hosting delegations from New Zealand—have provided valuable insights into what’s working, what isn’t, and the broader challenges faced in each country.

One of the most encouraging aspects has been the shared commitment and energy to “do the right thing.” In England, New Zealand, and Australia alike, there’s a collective recognition of past failures within organisations and a willingness to take action during this period of transition. As these regions work to develop best practices, it’s clear that each context demands unique solutions—yet certain foundational principles remain universal.

The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, established in 2013, was a watershed moment in Australia’s history, shining a light on the systemic failures that allowed the abuse of thousands of children spanning several decades and across various institutions, including religious organisations, schools, orphanages, and sports clubs.

Seven years after the final report was delivered in 2017, we look at some of the significant improvements that have been made, as well Kooyoora’s role and evolution in response to the findings and recommendations.

On 24 July 2024, the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State Care and in the Care of Faith-based Institutions released its long-awaited report. Established in 2018, the Commission investigated allegations of abuse involving children, young people, and adults in care from 1950 to 1999, hearing testimonies from over 3,000 survivors.

The final report, Whanaketia – Through Pain and Trauma, From Darkness to Light. Whakairihia ki te tihi o Maungārongo, revealed that between 113,000 and 253,000 individuals experienced abuse and neglect in these institutions. The report outlines several key recommendations to ensure such failures do not happen again and to provide justice and healing for survivors.

Kooyoora provides expert support in managing sensitive complaints and conducting thorough investigations to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals within organisations. Here are some case studies that show how we work collaboratively with reporting agencies, implement risk mitigation strategies, and ensure that organisations meet their legal and ethical obligations when handling allegations of misconduct.

These case studies highlight the vital role of thorough investigations and appropriate handling of sensitive complaints within organisations. They demonstrate how our professional investigators work to address allegations of misconduct, protect the wellbeing of those involved, and guide organisations in fulfilling their legal and ethical responsibilities.

Kooyoora’s new Online Screening Application (OSCA) is a secure online portal specifically designed to make the process of pre-employment screening as easy as possible for applicants and organisations. The platform provides real-time status updates and automates inefficient processes, saving organisations and their applicant’s valuable time. OSCA integrates seamlessly with Kooyoora’s professional development platform, providing a comprehensive solution for organisations.

Kooyoora works with organisations to ensure effective screening, prioritising child safety and legal compliance. Pre-employment checks on potential employees and volunteers are important for employers to conduct. They help reduce the risk of theft, fraud, or other criminal activity that could be performed by a new employee or volunteer. In industries where employees and volunteers work with children, the elderly, or other vulnerable communities, pre-employment checks are crucial for safe culture.

In May 2023, Kooyoora received a $35,000 grant from the National Centre for Child Abuse Research for the further development of an abuse prevention framework in partnership with Australian Catholic University and Glasshouse Safeguarding, as well as people that have experienced abuse in organisational settings.

The Kooyoora Abuse Prevention through Culture Change Framework is an organisational culture change and development program designed to safeguard against harmful behaviours such as sexual abuse, harassment, and misconduct.

Its purpose is to guide organisations through a process of meaningful self reflection and continuous improvement to better cultivate a positive and safe culture that is proactive in preventing harm.

It will be offered to interested organisations of all sizes who are committed to fostering a culture that supports the safety of all its members. Not a compliance-based approach, it is for organisations genuinely interested in shining a spotlight on their internal culture dynamics for the purpose of creating positive change.

The primary aim is to help organisations pinpoint the cultural factors that may increase the risk of abuse and harassment. The insights and information derived through the culture review process will be used to create bespoke educational resources for cultural transformation that supports and aligns with the principles of psychological safety.

As the festive season approaches, 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.