Safe family rules for kids in out-of-home care: for professionals
This practical resource helps workers develop safe house rules with children and carers when problematic or harmful sexual behaviours are a concern.
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Hosted on https://dcj.nsw.gov.au • Opens in a new tab
How this resource can help
Use this resource to
Develop safe house rules with children and carers
Set clear expectations that respond to behaviours of concern
Support carers to supervise and monitor children displaying problematic or harmful sexual behaviours
Review and adapt rules when they are not working
It covers
Why safe house rules are important when problematic or harmful sexual behaviours are a concern
How to make rules simple, child-friendly and specific to the child and household
Examples of safe house rules relating to privacy, bodies, sleeping arrangements, screens and devices
How to introduce, implement and review safe house rules with children and carers
Open this resource
Hosted on https://dcj.nsw.gov.au • Opens in a new tab
Last reviewed by Together We Can: 23 September 2026
What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour
Problematic and harmful sexual behaviour affects children, families, and communities. Understanding it clearly is the first step toward effective prevention, recognition, and response.
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Parents and carers
If you’re a parent or carer seeking information or worrying about a behaviour, you're not alone. Find resources to help you understand child sexual development, support safety, and respond to concerns about sexual behaviour.
Children and young people
It’s normal to have questions about your body, feelings, sex and relationships. If you’re a young person looking for information – head here. We’ve got information just for you.