Safer Spaces Policy

We are committed to the ongoing development of our culturally safe, community-led ways of working to enable learning, decision making and action. For this to work, we all have the responsibility to create and maintain ‘Safer Spaces’ for people to join and participate in what can sometimes be challenging but non-threatening conversations and activities in a respectful and supportive environment.

Principles of Safer Spaces

1. Respect for Diverse Perspectives

We recognise that our views and experiences are shaped by complex social and cultural backgrounds. Respect others’ opinions and experiences, even if they differ from your own. Speak from your own perspective, without assuming to represent others or entire groups. Practice empathy by listening and being curious, even when engaging in respectful disagreements.

2. Maintain Physical and Emotional Boundaries

Always be mindful of others' personal boundaries, both physical and emotional. Be cautious and sensitive when discussing personal experiences, especially in online spaces. Respect each individual's right to define and share their experiences on their own terms. Engage a ‘trauma-informed’ approach, being mindful about ‘how you show up’ and consider the feelings, triggers and experiences of those in the room. Respect people’s right to privacy and self-determination.

3. Create an Environment Free from Intimidation and Discrimination

Our community will not tolerate behaviour that is ableist, racist, sexist, ageist, transphobic, homophobic or queerphobic. Critiques should focus on deconstructing issues, not attacking or victimising individuals. Everyone has the right to express their views without fear of harassment, discrimination or intimidation.

4. Uphold Privacy and Consent

Respect others' privacy by not sharing personal information or private conversations without consent. Do not disclose personal information such as someone’s disability, sexuality, or identity without explicit permission. Do not share anyone's personal information (including private messages or identifying details) without their explicit consent. Respect everyone’s right to confidentiality.

By choosing to show up on our online spaces, you are agreeing to the DisasterWISE Safer Spaces protocols outlined above.  The interactions on our online space are moderated and any members or visitors engaging in discriminatory, intimidating or unsafe behaviour will be removed and/or blocked.

Please read through the following guidelines before participating in any of our online spaces:

No Spam or Self-Promotion

  • Avoid posting repetitive content or promotions, including excessive self-promotion.

Listen to Moderators

  • Moderators are here to help maintain a safer and positive space. Please follow their guidance, as they’re responsible for enforcing these rules for everyone’s benefit.

Disagreements Are Okay; Disrespect Is Not

  • Healthy debate is encouraged, but ensure all language remains respectful and focused on ideas, not individuals. If you’re upset, take a step back and return with a constructive mindset.

Report Issues, Don’t Escalate Them

  • If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it to a moderator rather than engaging directly. This helps keep the group safe without adding conflict. 

Be Mindful of Tone and Language

  • Since tone can be hard to convey online, try to use language that reflects kindness, clarity, and understanding. Use emojis, humor, or phrasing that helps your intentions come through positively.

Embrace Community Learning

  • This is a space for everyone to share knowledge, experiences, and ideas. Be curious and open to learning from each other and contributing to an inclusive, community-driven dialogue.

Copyright Notice for DisasterWISE Communities Network Mighty Networks Platform

All original content shared on the DisasterWISE Communities Network platform, including but not limited to member-generated discussions, posts, documents, and multimedia, is the exclusive property of DisasterWISE and its contributing members. Unauthorised reproduction, distribution, or use of any such member-generated material outside this community is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from DisasterWISE or the original content creator.

This platform may also share and distribute publicly accessible resources, which remain the property of their respective owners. These third-party resources are provided for educational and informational purposes only, and DisasterWISE does not claim ownership of or grant rights to these external materials beyond fair use.

By contributing to or accessing this platform, you agree that all original member-generated content is to be used within DisasterWISE for community learning and mutual support only, unless otherwise permitted.