Child Safety/Pastoral Wellbeing

St Mary's Primary School is committed to the safety and welfare of all children, within a secure environment. All children have the right to be treated with respect and to be protected from abuse and harm.

Catholic Care:

Did you know that Catholic Care Bendigo offers the following services:

Workshops; Counselling; Family Services; Regional Parenting Services; Parenting Orders Program; Relationship Education; Family Dispute Resolution; Homes First; Property Dispute Resolution; and Youth Justice.

🟠 Supporting Families – The Orange Door

Our school cares deeply about the safety and wellbeing of our students and their families. We understand that sometimes things at home or in relationships may not feel right, or families may be concerned about the wellbeing of their children or young people.

The Orange Door is a free service that can help you access support quickly and easily—no referral is required.

What is The Orange Door?

The Orange Door provides support for:

• Families concerned about a child or young person’s wellbeing or development
• Families needing parenting support
• Young, isolated, or unsupported families
• Individuals and families experiencing family violence
• Adults using family violence
• Young people using violence in the home

How The Orange Door Can Help

If you contact The Orange Door, they can assist by:

• Helping you identify the support you need
• Supporting the wellbeing and development of your child or young person
• Assisting you to create a safety plan if you feel unsafe
• Connecting you with services such as:
  • Counselling
  • Accommodation
  • Mental health and drug and alcohol support
  • Parenting programs
  • Children’s services
  • Financial and legal assistance
• Supporting access to funding for basic living expenses
• Assisting individuals to address and change harmful behaviours

Accessing Support

• Services are free
• No appointment or referral is needed
• Visit in person Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm

To find your nearest service, visit:The Orange Door – Support near you

How Our School Connects with The Orange Door

Our school may:

• Talk with students or families about The Orange Door
• Encourage families to seek advice and support

In some situations, the school may make a referral without consent if:

• Informing the family may increase risk
• Not connecting to support may impact safety and wellbeing