Client Incident Management System
For information on CIMS, including guides, templates and operational updates, see the Client Incident Management System page on the Providers website.
You can also email CIMS@dffh.vic.gov.au.
Reportable Conduct Scheme
For information on the Reportable Conduct Scheme, including advice, resources, templates, see the Reportable Conduct Scheme page on the Commission for Children and Young People website.
You can also call (03) 8601 5281 or 1300 782 978 or email contact@ccyp.vic.gov.au.
Reducing the impact of investigations
Service providers in-scope for the Reportable Conduct Scheme and CIMS must report incidents through both systems. This applies for incidents when staff members, carers or volunteers are the subject of allegation.
A Reportable Conduct Scheme investigation is accepted by the department instead of a CIMS investigation for any incident that meets the criteria for both. Further information is available in 3.7 and 4.4 of the CIMS policy and guidance (word).
A single investigation:
- reduces how often the alleged victim and witnesses need to be interviewed
- decreases the emotional toll on carers by streamlining the process
- reduces the administrative burden on service providers.
Service providers must follow all requirements of the Reportable Conduct Scheme investigation. Reportable Conduct Scheme investigation requirements are available at the Reportable Conduct Scheme page on the Commission for Children and Young People website.
When submitting the Reportable Conduct Scheme investigation in the CIMS IT system, service providers must also submit high-level recommendations that address the findings of the investigation to improve client safety, wellbeing or service delivery to the department.
The recommendations template can be found at the CIMS webpage.
Conducting joint Client Incident Management System and Reportable Conduct Scheme investigations
Service providers also have the option to conduct a joint CIMS and Reportable Conduct Scheme investigation.
The Commission for Children and Young People and the Department of Health and Human Services jointly developed guidance material for service providers on undertaking streamlined Client Incident Management System (CIMS) and Reportable Conduct Scheme investigations.
This guide supports community service organisations and investigators to better plan and conduct joint incident investigations.
A well-planned investigation also supports and informs the Independent Investigation and Suitability Panel processes to avoid unnecessary duplication of investigations.
Find more information in the Conducting joint reportable conduct and client incident management system investigations guide (Word).
Please note, this guide has not yet been updated to reference the new CIMS policy published December 2024. When using the guide, please be aware the current CIMS policy requirements must be met.
Investigations and exclusions under the Worker and Carer Exclusion Scheme
For information on when a worker or carer in scope of the scheme may be investigated or excluded from working, visit the Worker and Carer Exclusion Scheme page of the Social Services Regulator website.
You can also email WCESdatabase@ssr.vic.gov.au.