Member Protection

Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO)

MPIOs are the point of contact at Clubs, Associations and Referee Branches for participants, volunteers or parents with member protection enquiries or concerns.  In many clubs, the MPIO also manages the club’s Working with Children Check requirements.

Football NSW requires all Clubs, Associations and Referee Branches to have an MPIO.  All MPIOs must be registered in the relevant registration system for insurance purposes.

Role of the MPIO

As the main point of contact for enquiries and concerns relating to member protection, the MPIO should be approachable and have good communication skills and a sound knowledge of the club and the club committee structure as well as club policies, processes and child safe practices, including the Working with Children Check.

Some clubs have more than one MPIO as this provides a greater level of member support.

MPIO’s are impartial and do not mediate or investigate complaints.  Complaints are managed by the club, or a suitable person or third party appointed by the Club. Where conflict of interest occurs, the Club President or Committee can appoint an independent person or third party to manage the complaint.

The MPIO Role – video 1

The MPIO Role – video 2

MPIO Contact Details

Members should be able to contact their club MPIO.  The MPIOs phone and/or email should be made available to any person requesting it and on the club website and in player and parent newsletters.

MPIO Support

Due to the nature of the role, it is also important that MPIOs are provided with support.

Visit the FNSW Mental Health & Wellbeing information for support and resources.

Government Contacts

• NSW Police – In an emergency dial Triple Zero – 000
• NSW Police assistance line – 131 444
• Department of Communities & Justice – Child Protection Helpline – 132 111
• NSW OCG – Working with Children Check – 02 8219 3777