Code of Conduct policy
 

Purpose

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to establish clear and professional standards of behaviour expected of all patrons, competitors, parents, and guardians involved with the Launceston Festival of Dance (LFOD). These expectations reflect our commitment to respect, fairness, integrity, and high ethical standards. Our goal is to foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone's rights are upheld. This Code applies to ALL patrons, parents, guardians, and competitors attending the Launceston Festival of Dance

 

 

Acceptance of Terms Upon Entry

By entering the Launceston Conference Centre and participating in or attending any part of the Launceston Festival of Dance (LFOD)—including the auditorium, side stage, dressing rooms, or common venue areas—you are acknowledging and accepting the terms and conditions outlined in this Code of Conduct. All individuals associated with LFOD are responsible for their behaviour and will be held accountable in accordance with this policy.

 

 

 

Code of Conduct Expectations

As a participant, parent, or guardian, you are expected to:

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1. Treat everyone with respect, fairness, and consideration, including dancers, teachers, volunteers, adjudicators, and Festival staff.

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2. Act with honesty, transparency, and integrity in all your interactions and communications.

 

3. Maintain a duty of care towards all participants, ensuring a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.

4. Operate within the rules and spirit of the Launceston Festival of Dance, including respectful behaviour in all areas:

• Side stage

• In the auditorium

• Dressing rooms

• Common areas throughout the venue

5. Promote equal opportunity and refrain from any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination, or other antisocial behaviour.

•  Zero tolerance is in place for bullying, whether in person, on social media, or through other forms of communication (e.g., text, messaging).

• Consequences for bullying will be addressed by the Committee, and may include disqualification of competitors, removal from the venue, or other disciplinary action depending on the severity.

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6. Refrain from disruptive behaviour, such as yelling, screaming, or cheering from the side stage in a manner that could intimidate or distract other competitors.

• A formal warning will be issued by the Stage Manager or President if such behaviour occurs persistently.

• Continued behaviour may result in disqualification of the competitor(s) involved.

• Patrons behaving in this way will receive a formal warning; if behaviour persists, they will be asked to leave the auditorium or venue at the discretion of the Committee.

 

8. Patrons in the audience who display unsportsmanlike conduct (e.g., yelling or making negative comments directed at competitors or the adjudicator) will receive a formal warning.

• Continued disruptive behaviour will result in the individual being asked to leave the auditorium or venue.

• Encouraging and clapping for all performers is always encouraged and welcomed.

 

9. Be responsible and accountable for your actions. It is essential that all participants, parents, and supporters always maintain professionalism and respect towards others.

 

10. Avoid any behaviour that could bring the Launceston Festival of Dance, its affiliates, or individuals into disrepute. This includes negative conduct both in person and online.

 

11. Uphold all Child Safe Standards to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children and young people throughout the Festival.

 

12. Support and encourage all competitors and studios, irrespective of their skill level, background, or affiliation, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity.

 

Breaches and Consequences

Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in:

• A formal verbal or written warning

• Removal from the venue

• Disqualification of competitors or performances

• Suspension from future participation in the Festival

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All matters will be reviewed by the Launceston Festival of Dance Committee in a fair, confidential, and professional manner, with appropriate consequences based on the nature and severity of the breach.

 

All formal correspondence, including complaints, suggestions, and other concerns, MUST be submitted in writing to the Secretary via email at launcestonfestivalofdance@gmail.com. Submitting matters in writing ensures they are appropriately recorded and considered through the proper channels, allowing the full Committee—not just an individual—to review and respond collectively.