National Safe Church Unit reports
General Secretary (Interim) Rev Lindsay Cullen shares on the important work to ensure the Uniting Church is a safe place for all people
July 15, 2024
General Secretary (Interim) Rev Lindsay Cullen provided a report from the National Safe Church Unit (NSCU) to the 17th Assembly. The Unit was established in April 2019 in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
The report describes the unit, “as an expression of the whole of Church commitment to ensuring that all parts of the UCA are places where all people are safe and supported.” Further, to ensure it is “a place of reconciliation and healing for those who may have experienced harm within our walls or in their broader life.”
The report notes the history of social justice advocacy within the Uniting Church and its close association with caring for vulnerable people. This commitment undergirds the NSCU’s work in ensuring the Church can do this in an effective, safe and sustainable way.
Lindsay shared that the NSCU was in a time of transition with recent staff changes.
“I just want to be transparent that we are in a difficult period with the National Safe Church Unit. The Assembly is certainly aware of that, the Synods are aware of that.”
Lindsay reinforced the important work being conducted by the Synods to ensure child safety across the church.
During the triennium, the Unit has developed the National Child Safe Policy Framework and the Principles of a Child Safe Uniting Church in Australia. This work continues to be guided by the theological foundations which underpin the Uniting Church’s commitment to child safety and being a safe church.
Rev Cullen reported that he will be meeting with the General Secretaries of the Synod in August to continue to discuss the ongoing, significant work of child safety in the church.
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you want to get the latest news from the Uniting Church in Australia then subscribe to our weekly newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Read more 17th Assembly news
What's next for Act2?
What’s next for the Act2 Project? The work of the Act2 Project is by no means over. Rather, it is in a time of transition after the 17th Assembly, writes Acting Act2 Project Lead Rev Erik Lennestålwritten by Acting Act2 Project Lead, Rev Erik Lennestål The work of the Act2 Project is by no means…
Video: Meet our President-elect Rev Dr Paul Goh
“The Gospel to the whole creation”: Meet our President-elect Rev Dr Paul Goh We share an interview filmed at the 17th Assembly following Paul Goh’s election as the next President. He will serve in the Uniting Church’s most senior leadership role from 2027-2030The Assembly is delighted to release this new video introducing you to the…
That's a wrap on the 17th Assembly
That’s a wrap on the 17th Assembly meeting The 17th Assembly has wrapped up after six joyful days of fellowship, worship and discernment. As we head home from the triennial meeting, let’s keep weaving Christ’s loveThe 17th Assembly meeting wrapped up in Parramatta on Tuesday afternoon after six days of joyful Christian community, worship, prayer…
Act2 Decisions Summary
17th Assembly resolved on Act2 The 17th Assembly has adopted three new visions for the life of the Uniting Church, established two new national Commissions and requested further work on the national structure of the UCAThe 17th Assembly has made a series of decisions arising out of the Act2 Project, adopting three new visions for…
Reflections from international church partners
Reflections from international church partners President of Free Wesleyan Church in Tonga, Bishop from the Church of North India and General Secretary of Pacific Conference of Churches share with 17th AssemblyThis morning the 17th Assembly heard reflections from leaders of overseas church partners. Rev Dr Tevita Havea, President of the Free Wesleyan Church in Tonga,…
Worship Day 6
Worship Day 6 Two powerful sessions of worship conclude the 17th Assembly meetingAt the conclusion of the 17th Assembly, members gave thanks to God in a powerful and joyful time of worship. Closing Worship commenced with a blessing from the President. Members sang the Covenant Prayer, as put to music by NewLife Church. The President…
ASC appointed, new Chairs and Advocates
ASC Appointed, new Chairs and Advocates The 17th Assembly elects a new Assembly Standing Committee, New Circle Advocates and Committee ChairsOn the final day of the 17th Assembly, a new Assembly Standing Commitee was announced as well as Advocates for the Assembly Circles of Interest and Chairs for various Assembly Committees. Ballot convenor Scott Ballment…
17th Assembly recognises significant ministry across the Church
17th Assembly recognises significant ministry across the Church Minutes of Appreciation offered for former General Secretary, outgoing Board Chairs and moreToday the 17th Assembly recognised the significant leadership and work of people involved in the life and ministry of the Assembly including those in its committees and agencies. The Minutes of Appreciation were received with…