Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers the most common questions parents, carers, schools and community members ask about Blue Light Victoria, our programs, safety and how we work with young people.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please contact our team — we’re always happy to help.
About Blue Light Programs
What does Blue Light Victoria do?
Blue Light Victoria delivers early-intervention and prevention programs for young people. Our programs focus on building confidence, connection, resilience and positive relationships through structured activities in schools and communities.
Who are Blue Light programs for?
Our programs are designed for young people, generally aged 10–21 years (exact age ranges vary by program). They are often used as preventative or early-support options for young people who would benefit from additional connection, structure or positive role models.
Is Blue Light a mental health or counselling service?
No. Blue Light Victoria is not a clinical mental health service. We do not provide counselling, therapy or diagnosis. Our role is prevention, early intervention and community connection.
Are Blue Light programs free?
Many programs are provided at no cost to participants, particularly school-based and community programs. Some events or activities may have a small cost. Schools or local branches can provide specific details.
Safety, Supervision & Consent
How are young people supervised?
All Blue Light programs are supervised by trained adults, which may include facilitators, teachers, community volunteers and police and emergency services members. Supervision ratios and safety planning are appropriate to the activity and age group.
What checks do staff and volunteers have?
All staff and volunteers are required to hold a Working With Children Check and comply with Blue Light Victoria’s child safety policies, codes of conduct and training requirements. Staff also undergo a National Police Check.
How do you keep young people safe at events?
Safety planning is built into all programs and events. This includes clear behaviour expectations, risk assessments, supervision, emergency procedures and child-safe practices.
Police Involvement
Why are police involved in Blue Light programs?
Police involvement helps build positive relationships, trust and understanding between young people and emergency services. Police participate in a non-enforcement, preventative role.
What do police do at programs?
Police may act as mentors, activity leaders or positive role models. They participate alongside young people in structured activities.
What don’t police do?
Police do not conduct policing operations, gather intelligence, investigate incidents or question young people for law-enforcement purposes.
What if my child is uncomfortable with police involvement?
Participation in Blue Light programs is voluntary. We encourage families to discuss any concerns with schools or program coordinators. Alternative supports or referrals can be explored where appropriate.
👉 For more detail, visit How Police Are Involved in Blue Light Programs.
Is Blue Light right for my child?
How do I know if a Blue Light program is suitable?
Blue Light programs are best suited to young people who would benefit from structured activities, positive role models and increased connection. They are often used before issues escalate.
When might Blue Light not be the right support?
If a young person is experiencing acute mental health distress or requires clinical assessment, therapy or crisis support, a professional mental health service is more appropriate.
Can Blue Light help if my child needs more support?
If concerns arise during a program, Blue Light works with schools and families to help connect young people to appropriate services.
👉 You can read more on our page: Is Blue Light Right for My Child?
Blue Light Discos
What happens at a Blue Light disco?
Events are structured, supervised activities designed to be safe, inclusive and enjoyable. Details such as location, supervision and expectations are shared in advance.
Who supervises events?
Events are supervised by trained adults, including Blue Light staff, volunteers and police members, depending on the event.
What should my child bring?
Generally we would suggest that your child wear comfortable shoes, bring an emergency contact number along with them and depending on the event a small amount of money to purchase snacks and/or drinks.
What happens if there is an incident?
All incidents are managed according to Blue Light Victoria’s safety procedures, with young people’s wellbeing as the priority. Parents and carers are informed where appropriate.
As a parent can I stay at the event with my child?
Blue Light Victoria takes Child Safety very seriously, all adults present at events need to be registered volunteers who have undertaken the required screening to ensure the safety of all attendees.
How much does it cost to attend a disco?
Costs will vary depending on the location. Generally entry costs between $8 and $10. If you are experiencing financial hardship, please get in contact with your local branch.
How can I find out when and where there is a disco?
You can get information on your local branch through their individual facebook and/or Instagram pages and also on our website event finder page.
What is the age limit to attend a disco?
The age limit of discos will depend on the location, generally discos are run for young people of Primary age, check with your local branch.
Schools & Referrals
How do schools book a program?
Schools can contact Blue Light Victoria directly to discuss program options, availability and suitability.
Can schools refer individual students?
Referral processes vary by program. Schools are encouraged to speak with Blue Light Victoria to discuss the best approach.
How does Blue Light work with other youth services?
Blue Light Victoria works collaboratively with schools, community organisations and youth services. We complement — not replace — other supports.
Inspire, Engage and Equip young people to be their best self
