Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) has welcomed the passage of the Sport Legislation Amendment (World Anti-Doping Code Implementation) Bill 2026, an important milestone in Australia's preparations for the commencement of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code (the Code) and International Standards.
The legislation supports Australia's broader implementation program to align its anti-doping framework with the revised Code, which comes into effect internationally on 1 January 2027.
As a signatory to the Code, SIA is required to ensure its legislation, policies and operational arrangements remain compliant with global anti-doping requirements.
SIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Sarah Benson PSM, said the legislation reinforced Australia's longstanding commitment to protecting clean, fair and safe sport.
“Australia has a proud history of supporting clean sport and meeting its international anti-doping obligations,” Dr Benson said.
“The passage of this legislation is an important step in ensuring our anti-doping framework remains aligned with global standards and continues to support confidence in Australian sport.
“The 2027 Code strengthens the system for athletes through enhanced rights and fairness, greater protections for minors and vulnerable persons, and stronger independence across anti-doping decision-making.
“Importantly, while there are targeted reforms across the anti-doping system, most athletes will continue to experience anti-doping in a familiar way. Testing and the Prohibited List remain, and athletes continue to be responsible for what is in their system.”
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The legislative amendments support a range of changes required under the 2027 Code, including institutionally independent review pathways for adverse Therapeutic Use Exemption decisions, end-to-end strengthened operational independence across the whole Doping Control process, enhanced privacy safeguards.
Dr Benson said SIA would continue working closely with athletes, athlete support personnel, sporting organisations and other stakeholders ahead of the 2027 Code’s commencement on 1 January 2027.
“Implementation is more than updating legislation. It is about ensuring athletes, support personnel and sporting organisations understand what is changing, what stays the same and where to find trusted information.
“We will continue to deliver education, guidance and resources to support Australian sport prepare for the commencement of the 2027 Code.”
More information
- Minister Anika Wells's statement: New laws to strengthen Australia’s sport integrity system
- Australia's preparedness: 2027 World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards
- World Anti-Doping Agency: 2027 Code and International Standards