CODE OF CONDUCT

(Aligned with the National Integrity Framework)

Our Commitment

Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, respectful and positive environment for all swimmers, families, volunteers and officials.

All members agree to uphold the values of:

Respect
Integrity
Fairness
Accountability
Sportsmanship
Child Safety

This Code applies to:

Swimmers
Parents, caregivers and family members
Coaches
Volunteers and officials
Committee members
Supporters representing the club

It applies at:

Training
Competitions
Club events
Travel and accommodation
Online spaces and social media

1. SWIMMER CODE OF BEHAVIOUR

Swimmers Will Always:

• Compete according to the rules and competition conditions
• Demonstrate good sportsmanship — success is defined by effort, attitude and respect
• Show respect to coaches, officials, volunteers and teammates
• Accept referee and judge decisions respectfully
• Encourage and support fellow team members
• Represent the club with pride and responsibility
• Be punctual and prepared for training and competition
• Maintain appropriate behaviour on pool deck and in public spaces
• Follow all anti-doping rules and never use prohibited substances
• Report any unsafe, bullying or inappropriate behaviour

Swimmers Will Never:

• Argue, abuse or disrespect officials or volunteers
• Bully, intimidate, harass or exclude others
• Engage in unsafe behaviour
• Use the club name or logo without permission
• Post inappropriate or damaging content on social media
• Engage in unauthorised fundraising or sponsorship activities
• Use non-prescribed or prohibited substances

A “thank you” goes a long way — use it often.

2. PARENT, FAMILY & CAREGIVER CODE OF CONDUCT

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in creating a positive club culture.

Families Will Always:

• Model respectful behaviour toward swimmers, coaches, officials and other families
• Support their child’s development — not just performance outcomes
• Allow coaches to coach
• Communicate concerns respectfully and through appropriate channels
• Follow club policies and committee decisions
• Respect all officials and competition volunteers
• Encourage sportsmanship and resilience
• Support a safe and inclusive environment

Families Will Never:

• Coach from the sidelines or interfere with training sessions
• Verbally abuse, criticise or intimidate swimmers, coaches or officials
• Engage in gossip, online conflict or public criticism of the club
• Approach officials regarding decisions during competitions
• Bully or exclude other families
• Post negative or defamatory comments on social media

Concerns should be raised respectfully through the club’s formal communication pathway.

3. SOCIAL MEDIA & ONLINE BEHAVIOUR

All members must:

• Use respectful language online
• Protect the privacy and safety of swimmers
• Avoid sharing confidential club matters
• Refrain from posting negative commentary about officials, swimmers or the club
• Seek committee approval before issuing media statements

Online behaviour is considered an extension of club conduct.

4. CHILD SAFETY & INTEGRITY

Cannonvale Cannons aligns with the National Integrity Framework and zero tolerance policies regarding:

• Bullying
• Harassment
• Discrimination
• Sexual misconduct
• Grooming
• Abuse (verbal, emotional, physical or online)
• Doping violations

Any behaviour that places a child or member at risk will be treated seriously and may be referred to appropriate authorities.

All members are expected to report concerns through the appropriate channels.

5. COMMUNICATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

If concerns arise:

Speak respectfully to the relevant coach (not during competition).
Escalate to the Head Coach if required.
Submit concerns in writing to the Committee.
Matters may be referred under the National Integrity Framework where applicable.

Public confrontation or social media disputes are not acceptable.

6. BREACHES OF THIS CODE

Breaches may result in:

• Verbal warning
• Written warning
• Suspension from training or competition
• Removal from events
• Termination of membership
• Referral under the National Integrity Framework

The committee reserves the right to act in the best interests of swimmer welfare and club integrity.