Governing to Protect Vulnerable People

Directors need to be aware of their duty of care in the governance of institutions that care for vulnerable people.

Following extensive media coverage and public inquiry, trust is being eroded and having dramatic consequences for the operation of many institutions, places of education, worship and care.


Right course for you

Is this course right for you?

Organisations that provide services vital to children, the aged, the disabled, the homeless, the mentally unwell and many more should consider the scrutiny arising from recent high profile institutional crises.

Prior governance knowledge is ideal with participants having completed Foundations of Directorship, Company Directors CourseTM, or have at least five years’ extensive director experience.

However, recognising limitations with the sector for formal governance training, a recommended alternative pathways include one of the following short courses:

  • Foundations of Directorship – Governance for Directors (one day face-to-face course, preferred); or
  • Role of the Director and the Board (half day face-to-face course); or
  • In the Boardroom: Responsibilities and Practice (half day face-to-face course); or
  • Duties and Responsibilities of the Not-for-Profit Director (half day face-to-face course)
Course learnings

What will you learn?

At the completion of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Identify the scope of organisational risk in relation to vulnerable people and discuss the factors that contribute to vulnerability;
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of relevant policies and procedures and identify ways the board can monitor compliance;
  • Closely examine your organisational culture and understand what reports the board needs to verify a safe culture;
  • Monitor and evaluate reporting standards around culture so that you are complying the highest standards of supervision; and
  • Implement transparent frameworks for responsibility sharing and avoiding concentration of influence
Course expectations

What can you expect?

This is a one-day course delivered face-to-face. The course is delivered by an experienced facilitator, with short activities and case studies included to guide discussion.

Topics covered include:

  • A summary of the findings of recent Royal Commissions affecting vulnerable people, including those focussing on child sexual abuse, aged care and disability.
  • The board’s responsibility in governing to protect vulnerable people;
  • Cultural and ethical dimensions contributing to the wellbeing of vulnerable people, and how to adopt a safe culture; and
  • Effective policies supporting the governance of organisations working with vulnerable people.

Why learn with us?

content with pen

Contemporary Content

Designed by expert educators with the input of experienced directors and subject matter experts, our courses offer contemporary content that is updated annually. Course materials include recent case studies and real-life examples to ensure relevancy for directors of today and tomorrow.
magnifying glass over paper

Expert Facilitators

Our course facilitators boast extensive real-world director experience and undergo a rigorous selection and development process to ensure they are equipped to create an interactive and engaging learning environment.
people in a group

High-Calibre Participants

Connect with and learn from a diverse group of experienced senior executives and directors who are passionate about improving their impact and leadership in the boardroom and the performance of their business.
certificate of recognition

Widely Recognised

By undertaking one of our highly regarded programs you are demonstrating your commitment to good governance and can earn the widely recognised post nominals that associate you with Australia's leading organisation for directors.

View course dates

We have a wide range of courses to suit your professional development needs.
Search by date, location or course type.

View course dates

Strengthening society through world-class governance.

We aim to be the independent and trusted voice of governance, building the capability of a community of leaders for the benefit of society.

© Copyright 2020 - 2022 Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD)

version: 1.6.248.0