Football Victoria is proud to recognise Maccabi FC Caulfield as the June Club Changer Club of the Month, celebrating the club's outstanding commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for players of all ages and abilities.
Guided by its philosophy of "Connecting the Community Through Sport", Maccabi FC Caulfield continues to provide meaningful football opportunities for participants from toddlers taking their first steps in the game through to senior players, while ensuring the wellbeing of every member remains at the centre of its operations.
For Maccabi FC Caulfield President Ari Singer, safeguarding is fundamental to the club's mission.
"Football should be a place where every child feels safe, supported and valued," he said.
"Being recognised as Club Changer Club of the Month is incredibly rewarding because it reflects our commitment to creating positive experiences for everyone who walks through our doors.
“We want football to be a place where young people can develop not only as players, but as confident and connected members of the community."
A key factor in the club's recognition is its strong commitment to safeguarding and child safety. Maccabi FC Caulfield has worked proactively to embed child-safe practices throughout the club, creating an environment where young people can participate, develop and enjoy football with confidence.
The club maintains a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse and has implemented comprehensive measures aligned with Football Victoria's Member Protection Framework and Victoria's Child Safe Standards. All coaches, team managers and volunteers working with children are required to hold a valid Working with Children Check, while clear codes of conduct help foster a culture built on respect, inclusion and positive behaviour.
Central to the club's safeguarding approach is its Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO), who provides an accessible and confidential point of contact for players, parents and volunteers seeking guidance or support. Through education, awareness and ongoing engagement, the MPIO plays an important role in ensuring child safety remains a visible and active priority across the club.
The club's commitment to inclusion extends beyond its safeguarding framework. Through initiatives such as the Mighty Bees All Abilities Program, Maccabi FC Caulfield provides tailored football opportunities for children with additional needs, ensuring every participant has the opportunity to experience the joy of the game in a supportive environment.
The club's Youth Development Program further reinforces this commitment by focusing on skill development, resilience, teamwork and positive coaching practices, helping create an environment where young players can thrive both on and off the pitch.
By combining strong governance, proactive safeguarding measures and a genuine commitment to inclusion, Maccabi FC Caulfield continues to demonstrate how community football clubs can make a lasting impact on the lives of their members.