Social Media Policy

1. Purpose

This policy provides practical guidance for the Knox United Soccer Club community when using social media, ensuring members can participate positively while protecting children, privacy, the Club's reputation and community standards.

2. Coverage

This policy applies to players, parents/guardians, spectators, coaches, team managers, volunteers, committee members, officials and any person posting content connected to Knox United Soccer Club, its teams, events, sponsors, members or reputation.

3. Platforms

Social media includes Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, WhatsApp, Messenger, Snapchat, blogs, forums, online reviews, live streaming, team apps, direct messaging and any platform that allows users to publish or share content online.

4. Official Club Accounts

Only authorised persons may post or respond on behalf of the Club. Official content should be accurate, respectful, family-friendly and aligned with Club values. The Club may edit or remove content and withdraw posting access at any time.

5. Personal Use Connected to the Club

Members are ambassadors for the Club when posting about Club matters. Personal opinions should not be presented as official Club statements. Do not post content that is offensive, intimidating, discriminatory, defamatory, misleading, confidential or likely to damage the Club or another person.

6. Images, Privacy and Children

• Seek consent before posting a clear, identifiable image of another person where the image is not incidental.
• Parent or guardian consent is required for identifiable images or information relating to children.
• Do not post injuries, medical incidents, distressed children, private disputes, change room content or any other sensitive material.
• Remove a photo or personal information if requested by the Club or the individual (or their parent/guardian).

7. Respect and Legal Obligations

Do not post or share content that is bullying, harassing, racist, sexist, sexually explicit, hateful, threatening, illegal, indecent or in breach of copyright laws. Do not disclose confidential information from Committee meetings, selection discussions, disciplinary matters, financial records or private member information.

8. Team Groups and Direct Messages

Team social media groups and direct messaging channels are for football and Club-related purposes. Administrators should monitor groups and remove inappropriate content. Communication with children must comply with the Club's Electronic Communication Policy and Child Safety requirements.

9. Breaches

The Club may request the removal of content, remove posts, restrict access, issue warnings, refer matters to the Committee, apply disciplinary action or refer serious matters to Football Victoria, police or other relevant authorities.