Club Social Media Policy Examples

Why Every Club Needs a Social Media Policy

Social media is one of the most powerful tools a paddling club can use; it helps celebrate achievements, connect with members, attract new participants, and promote events. However, without clear guidelines, it can also create challenges around privacy, conduct, and reputation.

That’s why every club should have a Social Media Policy. It’s not about restricting communication; it’s about setting expectations and protecting your members, volunteers, and the club’s image.

Why a Social Media Policy Matters

A clear policy helps your club:

• Protect members and volunteers – by outlining respectful online behaviour and how to respond to inappropriate content.

• Safeguard the club’s reputation – ensuring consistent, positive messaging that aligns with your club values.

• Support volunteers and admins – providing clarity on who manages pages, what can be posted, and how to handle comments or complaints.

• Comply with legislation – including child safety, copyright, and privacy requirements.

Useful Resources to Help You Get Started

• Play by the Rules – Social Media Policy Template:
  A free, editable template designed for community sports clubs. It includes key sections like roles and responsibilities, content approval, and dealing with breaches.
  🔗 Access the template here

• eSafety Commissioner – Online Safety Guidance for Clubs:
  The eSafety Commissioner provides online safety advice and resources to help make sure everyone in sport has more positive experiences online.
  🔗 Visit the eSafety Commissioner’s Sports Hub here

• Example: Newy Paddlers Social Media Policy:
  Newy Paddlers have kindly shared their club’s policy as a practical example of how this can look in action.
  🔗 View the Newy Paddlers Social Media Policy

• Paddle Australia Policies:

  Please be aware that Paddle Australia has a number of policies that apply to our State Paddle Associations and clubs. It always
  🔗 View Paddle Australia's Policies here

How to Use These Resources

1. Start with the Play by the Rules template and customise it for your club.

2. Review the eSafety Commissioner’s advice to make sure your policy supports safe and inclusive online spaces.

3. Use Newy Paddlers’ policy as a real-world example to guide your tone and structure.

4. Share your final policy with members and volunteers, and revisit it annually to ensure it stays relevant.