Club 77 - Safe spaces case study
In this video case study, Club 77 shares how they introduced a Designated Safety Officer role to support a zero‑harm approach to patron safety.
When a nightclub in Sydney’s Darlinghurst area was faced with an increase in reports from patrons and staff that unwanted physical and non-physical attention was occurring, it was time to stand up and make a change.
Safety was the number one priority for Club 77. After researching safety practices used around the world and consulting with NSW Police, the Safe Spaces policy was developed.
To ensure the policy was applied consistently, Club 77 established its own security company to ensure all staff knew how the policy was to be implemented.
Every shift there are two safety officers on duty - one on the door and one inside the club. They wear highly visible pink vests so patrons can easily find help if they experience unwanted attention or harassment. The vests have received overwhelmingly positive reaction from both staff and patrons.
All staff completes in-house training, including conflict resolution. This supports the club’s ‘hands‑off’ approach, which aims to reduce physical contact between security and patrons. Signage throughout the venue educates patrons about the Safe Spaces program and clearly outlines unacceptable behaviour.
Safety officers play a key role in the safety of both patrons and staff. They manage complaints and conflicts inside the club and work with patrons to resolve issues appropriately. Safety officers maintain an incident register and share updates and outcomes with staff and they also work closely with NSW Police regarding patron safety.
Since introducing Safe Spaces, Club 77's staff and patrons have seen positive results. Incidents of harassment have decreased, unacceptable behaviour has dropped, staff feel safer at work, and patrons can have a 'safe space' to enjoy a night out.
How the Safe Spaces program began
- Increasing reports of anti‑social behaviour
- Research into global harm‑minimisation best practices
- Consultation with NSW Police
- Development of the Safe Spaces policy and 'Safety Officer' roles
- Creation of an in‑house security team to ensure consistency in security protocols
- Introduction of high‑visibility pink vests for Safety Officers.
How the Safe Spaces program works
- All staff receive training, including conflict resolution
- Two Safety Officers wear pink vests every shift
- Pre‑shift staff briefings identify risks and concerns
- Signage throughout the venue outlines unacceptable behaviour
- Security staff engage with patrons on arrival
- Ongoing monitoring for inappropriate behaviour
- Clear procedures for managing complaints and conflicts
- Regular collaboration with nearby venues.