Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle are committed to providing safe environments for students.  Whilst we have a legal obligation to protect children, this commitment is central to our Catholic beliefs. All schools in NSW are required to meet the statutory obligations of legislation relating to child protection and schools in this diocese are required to uphold the policies and guidelines set out by the Catholic Schools Office.

At St Patrick’s, we believe that all children have a right to a safe environment which is free from any form of abuse or harm. We believe that relationships between adults and children are governed by trust and Gospel values. The staff of St Patrick's hold that children, young people and vulnerable adults are a gift from God with an intrinsic right to dignity of life, respect and security from physical and emotional harm. They are to be treasured, nurtured and safeguarded.

On 15 June 2013, The Child Protection (Working with Children) Regulation 2013 made under The Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012 came into force. The Regulation applies to any person working in child-related employment, including both paid and volunteer work.