Our Purpose
Initiating the Masculine Heart exists to support boys and young men through the presence, guidance and integrity of fathers and male elders. Our aim is to model healthy masculinity grounded in strength, tenderness, courage, responsibility and faith.
This Code of Conduct protects boys first, while also protecting fathers, leaders and the integrity of the community. By participating, each father agrees to uphold the standards below.
1. Child Safety Comes First
The safety and wellbeing of boys is our highest priority. Abuse of any kind – physical, emotional, sexual, spiritual or neglect – will not be tolerated.
We operate in line with Queensland child protection legislation and child-safe expectations. Our child protection framework exists to protect children, families, fathers, leaders and the organisation.
2. Supervision, Boundaries and Presence
- Fathers are never alone one-on-one with a boy unless the boy is their own child.
- Activities take place in open, observable environments.
- One-on-one situations are avoided. If unavoidable (e.g. first aid), another adult must be present or within sight.
- Fathers remain attentive and present, avoiding distractions and disengagement.
3. Respect, Dignity and Brotherhood
- Every boy and father is treated with dignity, patience and respect.
- There is no shaming, humiliation, ridicule or harsh correction.
- Differences in personality, maturity, culture or faith expression are respected.
- We lead by example, modelling calm authority, humility and self-control.
4. Physical Contact, Language and Behaviour
- No inappropriate touching, rough play, physical discipline or intimidation.
- Physical contact is appropriate, minimal, and related to safety, encouragement or instruction.
- No sexualised, suggestive, aggressive or demeaning language or behaviour.
- Boys are never exposed to adult conversations, humour or content that is inappropriate for their age.
5. Clothing, Privacy and Modesty
- No nudity is permitted at any time.
- Shirts off may be acceptable in appropriate settings (e.g. sport or water activities).
- Privacy and dignity are respected in toilets and changing areas.
- Fathers actively model respect for bodies and personal boundaries.
6. Emotional Safety and Responsibility
- Fathers take responsibility for their own emotions and behaviour.
- Strong emotions are handled with maturity and care, never projected onto boys.
- Boys are encouraged, not pressured, to participate or speak. It is always okay for a boy to pass.
- Initiating the Masculine Heart is not a substitute for counselling or professional support.
7. Speaking, Listening and Leadership
- Fathers speak for themselves and avoid correcting, fixing or lecturing boys.
- Listening is prioritised over teaching.
- Silence is honoured when appropriate.
- Facilitators’ guidance is followed at all times to protect safety and process.
8. Activities, Competition and Play
- Activities are safe, age-appropriate, inclusive and well supervised.
- Competition is kept healthy and supportive, never aggressive or dominating.
- The focus is on participation, connection and growth, not winning.
9. Phones, Substances and Recording
- Mobile phones and smart devices are put away during activities unless required for safety.
- No alcohol or recreational drugs are permitted before or during gatherings.
- No audio, video or photographic recording of boys is permitted without explicit permission from organisers and parents.
10. Confidentiality and Trust
- Personal stories shared by boys or fathers are treated with care and discretion.
- Confidentiality is respected, with the clear understanding that safety concerns must be reported.
- If a boy is at risk of harm to himself or others, confidentiality will be broken to seek appropriate support.
11. Reporting and Legal Responsibilities (Queensland)
- We are mandatory reporters.
- Any concern, suspicion or disclosure of abuse involving a child under 16 must be reported to the Child Protection Officer (CPO) and may be referred to relevant authorities as required by law.
- If you are unsure, report it. If something feels wrong, speak up.
12. Breaches of This Code
Any breach of this Code of Conduct may result in immediate removal from the program and may be reported to appropriate authorities.
Our Shared Commitment
Initiating the Masculine Heart is built on trust, responsibility and example. As fathers, we commit to being men who are safe, grounded, present and worthy of imitation. By participating, I agree to uphold this Code of Conduct.