Australia’s Team Up partners recently marked Safe Sports Day 2026 in Port Moresby, bringing together volunteer coaches, referees and young leaders to encourage safe, inclusive and respectful sporting environments for youngsters.

The event was held at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre on August 7 under this year’s theme, “Stand up. Speak out. Play your part.”

The day focused on helping children and young people recognise safe and unsafe behaviour, speak up about concerns, and seek support from trusted adults.

Team Up partners, including Inclusive GymBad, PNG Football Association’s Just Play, PNG Hockey’s Hookin4Health, One Netball, AFL PNG’s Pilai Long Senis and League Bilong Laif, delivered interactive sports activities centred on respect, inclusion, teamwork and kindness.

Pilai Long Senis Program Coordinator Jill Ravusiro said safeguarding must remain a key part of all sporting activities.

“The impact of sport is measured not only by the skills we teach, but by the lives we protect.”

She said every clinic, conversation, and interaction with children was an opportunity to contribute to a safer future.

“Through Pilai Long Senis, safeguarding is part of everything we do, ensuring every child is protected, respected, included and empowered to thrive on and off the field.”

Safeguarding efforts also extend to the Kicks for Kokoda program, which recently delivered child safeguarding and protection training with its implementing partner, the PNG Olympic Committee.

The training covered child safeguarding principles, identifying signs of child harm, safe coaching practices, and reporting procedures.

Kicks for Kokoda Program Coordinator Basil Jofari said equipping PNG Olympic Committee HERO athletes with safeguarding knowledge was important to ensure those working with young people understood their responsibilities.

“Everyone involved in Kicks for Kokoda has a role to play in helping young people learn, play and grow in safe and inclusive environments.”