Child Safeguarding and the Olympic Games

Olympic swimming pool with 4 swimmers in lanes

The aim of this research is to explore Australia’s efforts to address child protection and safeguarding measures in the preparation for the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane, Australia. This research is important because it puts children’s safety and wellbeing at the centre of planning for one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

It employs a qualitative approach through key stakeholder interviews to gather insights into the effectiveness of current practices and the perspectives of key decision-makers.  This research will contribute to ensuring that Australia meets its ethical responsibilities and creates a safe, inclusive environment for all children and young people involved in or affected by the 2032 Olympic Games.

 

Overview

Mega sporting events like the Olympics can bring excitement and opportunity but they also carry risks for children. Studies have reported rising concerns about abuse within sport and the broader impacts of event planning on children’s rights and wellbeing.

Given sport’s deep cultural significance, it’s vital that mega events are designed with child safety at the core. This means putting strong protections in place before, during, and after the Games to ensure all children, whether athletes or local residents, are safe, respected, and supported.

Two students play soccer in SCU uniforms.

“Children and young people have the right to be safe and well during sporting events.”

Stakeholders are invited to share their insights

antonia.canosa@scu.edu.au

Research Team

Portrait or Dr Antonia Canosa

Dr Antonia Canosa

Research Fellow

Antonia is a social anthropologist and Chief Investigator on this project at the Centre for Children and Young People (CCYP), Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University.

Associate Lynne McPherson

Professor Lynne McPherson

Professor

Lynne is the Chair of Out of Home Care and Director of Research at the Australian Childhood Foundation and Acting Director of the Centre for Children and Young People (CCYP), Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University.