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Code of Conduct 2023

The Parkside Switch Camp organisers are very excited to provide opportunities for switch dancing in the Australian swing dancing scene. Switch dancing really asks us to step forward with inclusivity, as now anyone can lead or follow, regardless of gender, age, height, etc. We know many dancers are really taking a brave leap to begin to dance two roles, so we want to make sure it is a safe and welcoming environment for anyone that attends this event. All people attending the Parkside Switch Camp are required to act in accordance with our Code of Conduct to ensure this.

What is not okay?

Any unwanted or unwelcome behaviour (sexual or otherwise) which makes a person feel offended, humiliated or intimidated. Examples of harassment and bullying include but are not limited to:

  • Inappropriate verbal comments, teasing or putting down of others

  • Intimidation or stalking

  • Unwanted physical contact or unwanted sexual advances

  • Posting unwanted, unauthorised or inappropriate material on social media, particularly when directed at or about an individual

  • Any inappropriate, bullying or harassing text messages

  • Behaviour that may be considered an offence under criminal law, such as physical assault, indecent exposure, sexual assault, stalking, or obscene communications.

What is okay? Aka, how can I treat everyone respectfully?

Dancing is about fun, but also about consent. Communicate with your partner and ensure you are both feeling comfortable and safe.

  • Be good people: do not use misogynist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or racist language.

  • Ask for verbal consent: “Would you like to dance?” “Would you like a drink?”

  • Ask for verbal consent for which role(s) the other person would like to engage with during this dance.

  • Even if you’ve been given consent before, ask every time. Use your words.

  • Respect the bodies and persons of other people: do not touch anyone without asking permission, do not touch anyone inappropriately, and stop if someone asks you to. Do not harass or pester someone who has already said no to a dance.

If someone lets you know, verbally or non-verbally, that they are feeling uncomfortable, address your behaviour, apologise sincerely, and make a change immediately.

Camp-specific guidelines

Beyond the dancing specifically, this event is also a camp where dancers share accommodation. Follow these guidelines for appropriate behaviour and use of the Urban Camp space:

  • Do not bring any illicit drugs on the premises

  • No smoking or vaping on the premises

  • Do not enter any dorm rooms of others, stick to the shared spaces if you’d like to socialise with someone from a different dorm.

  • Leave the shared spaces tidy after you’ve finished using them, such as the bathroom or the dining room tables

  • Contribute as needed to the setting up and packing down of tables for group meals

  • Do not allow anyone without a ticket to the event entry to the premises

Reporting

Do you feel like there has been a breach of this Code of Conduct? Tell us! If someone lets you know that they are uncomfortable with another person’s behaviour, please encourage them to come and talk to us, or seek their permission to come and talk to us yourself. Our team are here to assist with any issues you may have, even if it is just to lend an ear. All conversations will be kept strictly confidential.​

Violations of the Code of Conduct will result in a range of outcomes, from a conversation and reference to the Code of Conduct to expulsion from our venues and events.

Repeated infringements of our Code of Conduct will not be tolerated.​

Have fun, make friends. Be supportive and respectful of each other, and keep each other safe.

A copy of the Code of Conduct will be available at the event

You can approach:

  • Lauren Byrne (event organiser) in person or by phone (phone number will be provided closer to event)

  • If you do not feel comfortable speaking to Lauren or the other support people in person, you can email laurendancemelbourne@gmail.com

  • Additional safe spaces support people will be listed closer to the event

If you need emergency assistance, crisis hotlines such as the below are also available to you.

  • Lifeline Australia (13 11 14)

  • Crisis Care (08 9223 1111)

  • Sexual Assault Resource Centre 24 hour emergency line (1800 199 888)

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