Reportable Conduct Scheme (RCS) update

From 1 July 2026, the Reportable Conduct Scheme (RCS) requires organisations that work with children to report, investigate, and manage allegations of child-related misconduct under the oversight of the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC). The scheme applies to current and former workers, regardless of whether the alleged conduct occurred during the course of their work or in their private lives.

Key obligations include:

• Notifying the QFCC within three business days of becoming aware of a reportable allegation.
• Conducting timely, independent, and well-documented investigations.
• Ensuring senior leaders are accountable for reporting, investigation, and record-keeping.
• Reviewing and updating child safeguarding policies, reporting procedures, and governance arrangements.
• Notifying the Queensland Police Service immediately where the alleged conduct may constitute a criminal offence.

Reportable conduct includes:

• Sexual offences or misconduct (including grooming).
• Physical violence or excessive force.
• Ill-treatment or inappropriate discipline.
• Significant neglect.
• Emotional or psychological abuse.

Well before the introduction of the Reportable Conduct Scheme, the Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) had implemented a comprehensive safeguarding framework that meets—and in many respects exceeds—legislative requirements. This framework includes:

• A rigorous Safe Church Training program, mandatory every three years.
• Mandatory Working with Children Checks/Blue Cards (or equivalent clearances) for relevant workers and volunteers.
• A network of Safe Church Coordinators within congregations and ministries who oversee compliance and safeguarding practices.
• The Safety Management Online (SMO) system, which maintains current records of screening clearances, Safe Church training, appointments, incident reporting, complaints services and compliance for individuals serving within the Church.
• Policies and procedures

Together, these measures provide a robust system for promoting child safety, supporting safe recruitment and appointment practices, and ensuring ongoing compliance with safeguarding obligations.

Please find attached copies of the following documents and information:

• Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy
• Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults Procedure
• Poster – Reporting Abuse

To find out more go to:

Complaints – Lutheran Church of Australia  

Safe Church – Lutheran Church of Australia

Policies – Lutheran Church of Australia