Safety & Risk Management

Comprehensive Systems That Put Student and Staff Safety First

At Bindaree, safety is not an afterthought — it is a core principle that informs every stage of our program design, planning, and delivery. With decades of experience delivering outdoor education across Victoria, we have well-established systems in place to ensure the highest levels of safety, risk awareness, and staff preparedness.

We are a licensed tour operator with Parks Victoria, and hold accreditations with VTIC and Transport Safety Victoria. Our commitment to best practice is backed by detailed documentation, robust training, and a strong culture of responsibility.

Pre-Program Planning and Risk Checks

Before any group heads into the field, our team completes a full suite of planning and safety checks, including:

  • Activity-specific risk assessments
  • Location and site-based risk reviews
  • Pre-program checks on weather conditions, terrain, and seasonal risks
  • Lodgement of trip intentions with Parks Victoria, Local Police, and CFA
  • Vetting and documentation of third-party activity providers where relevant

This planning ensures that each program is adapted to current conditions and meets the highest safety expectations for both students and staff.

In-Field Program Support

While our in-field teams are highly experienced and well-resourced, they are also supported by a dedicated Duty Manager team based at head office.

  • Available 24/7 during programs
  • Provides backup in the event of incidents or emergency communication
  • Monitors conditions and supports field teams with real-time updates

We also conduct twice-daily weather checks, with up-to-date information passed directly to field staff to support program decision-making.

Risk Management Systems and Documentation

All programs are delivered with comprehensive safety protocols, including:

  • Certificate of Currency
  • Duty Manager System and escalation pathways
  • Program Contact Record System (real-time tracking and updates)
  • Severe Weather and Warnings Response Guide
  • In-field Emergency Response Procedures
  • Staff Field Manual
  • Activity Risk Assessments
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • First Aid and Incident Reporting Systems

This structured approach ensures that risks are identified, documented, and actively managed throughout every stage of the program.

Staff Training and Accreditation

All Bindaree field staff are trained, qualified outdoor professionals.
Our recruitment and onboarding process includes:

  • Qualification verification and background checks
  • Current Working with Children Checks (WWCC)
  • CPR and Wilderness First Aid certification
  • Minimum Certificate IV in Outdoor Recreation
  • Ongoing staff training, upskilling, and field mentoring

You can trust that your program is led by people who not only know the outdoors — they understand the responsibility of keeping students safe in it.