Social Contract for Venue Hire 
St Matthews Church Manly 

1. Purpose 

St Matthews Church Manly is committed to fostering a respectful, safe, and welcoming environment for all who enter our premises. This Social Contract sets out the expectations of hirers ("Licensees"), their guests, and any other attendees present at events held at the venue. 

2. Respect for People and Property 

• All individuals on site must be treated with dignity, kindness, and respect, regardless of background, beliefs, or opinions. 

• Any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying, or offensive behaviour are unwelcome and unacceptable. 

• Licensees and attendees must respect the facilities, equipment, and furnishings of the Church. Any damage to property must be reported immediately and may incur repair costs. 

3. Appropriate Conduct 

• Events and activities must not be inconsistent with the doctrines or beliefs of the Christian faith as practiced by the Anglican Diocese of Sydney. See the Property Use Policy of the Diocese for further detail.  

• Without limiting the above: 

• The endorsement, or engagement in gambling, drug use, and excessive alcohol consumption on the premises is not permitted. 

• Language, music, dress, and behaviour should be appropriate for a Christian environment. 

4. Safety and Well-being 

• Licensees are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for their guests and attendees. 

• Emergency exits must remain clear at all times, and all fire and safety regulations must be followed. 

• Children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times while on site. 

• If an incident occurs, it must be reported immediately to the Church’s designated representative. 

5. Noise and Community Consideration 

• Noise levels must be kept within reasonable limits, particularly in consideration of surrounding residents and ongoing Church activities. 

• Events must conclude within the agreed-upon time frame, with attendees departing in an orderly manner. 

6. Faith and Church Mission 

• Bookings will not be accepted if the proposed use conflicts with this Social Contract. 

• Licensees must respect the sacred nature of the church precinct and acknowledge that the Church’s primary function is ministry. 

7. Compliance and Consequences 

• Failure to adhere to this Social Contract may result in immediate termination of the hire agreement without refund. 

• The Licensor reserves the right to refuse future bookings to any Licensee found in breach of this agreement. 

8. Agreement 

By hiring a space at St Matthews Church Manly, the Licensee acknowledges that they and their guests/attendees have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Social Contract.