Grievance and Disciplinary Procedure

Grievance and Disciplinary Policy

Policy Name: Grievance and Disciplinary Policy
Document Type: Policy
Effective Date: 21/08/2025
Last Reviewed: 21/08/2025
Next Review: 21/08/2026

Approved By: Sydney United Volleyball Club Board

Approved Date: 21/08/2025

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

Provide a clear and fair process for handling grievances and disciplinary matters.
Ensure all Members, including players, coaches, referees, parents, volunteers, and Board members, are treated with respect, fairness, and transparency.
Maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment in accordance with Volleyball NSW and Volleyball Australia policies.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

All Members of the Club (players, coaches, referees, volunteers, Life Members).
Parents, guardians, or spectators involved with the Club.
Board members and staff.

Covers issues including:

Misconduct, harassment, bullying, or discrimination.
Breaches of the Club Code of Conduct, Volleyball NSW Code of Conduct, or Member Protection Policy.
Disputes between Members or between Members and the Club.

3. Principles

All grievances and disciplinary matters shall be addressed in accordance with:

Fairness: All parties have the right to be heard and respond.
Confidentiality: Complaints will be treated as confidential to the extent possible.
Impartiality: Investigations and decisions will be conducted objectively.
Timeliness: Complaints will be addressed promptly.
Proportionality: Disciplinary measures will match the severity of the issue.

4. Grievance Procedure

4.1 Informal Resolution

Members are encouraged to resolve grievances informally by discussing the issue with the other party or a Board member.

4.2 Formal Complaint

If informal resolution fails, a formal complaint must be submitted in writing to the Secretary of the Board.
Include: nature of grievance, parties involved, supporting evidence.

4.3 Investigation

The Board (or appointed sub-committee) investigates the complaint.
Both parties will have the opportunity to present their case.

4.4 Outcome

Resolution may include mediation, warning, suspension, or expulsion.
Outcomes are communicated in writing to all parties.

5. Disciplinary Procedure

5.1 Misconduct
Misconduct includes:

Breaches of Constitution, Code of Conduct, or policies
Violence, harassment, discrimination
Conduct bringing the Club or volleyball into disrepute

5.2 Investigation

The Board or appointed sub-committee investigates.
The accused party is notified in writing and may respond.

5.3 Sanctions
Sanctions may include:

Verbal or written warning
Suspension from training, matches, or Club events
Expulsion from the Club
Referral to Volleyball NSW for further action

6. Appeals

Appeals may be lodged in writing to the Board within 14 days of notification.
An Appeals Panel of impartial individuals will review the case.
Decisions of the Appeals Panel are final.

7. Record Keeping

All complaints, investigations, decisions, and outcomes will be recorded by the Club Secretary.
Records remain confidential and comply with privacy obligations.

8. Related Policies

SUVC Code of Conduct
SUVC Child Safety Policy
Volleyball NSW Member Protection Policy
Volleyball Australia Codes of Conduct

9. Review

Reviewed at least every 12 months or sooner if required by Volleyball NSW regulations.
Next review: 21/08/2026

10. Applicable Legislation (NSW)

This Policy is compliant with the following NSW legislation:

Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 (NSW)
Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012 (NSW)
Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW)
Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW)
Associations Incorporation Act 2009 (NSW) – relevant if any future incorporation occurs

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