Sport is a powerful platform for inclusion, leadership, and community.
Under the Respect at Work reforms, your sporting organisation carries a positive duty under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth). This applies whether it’s a professional club, grassroots association, or governing body.
Respect at Work Amendment Act
The Respect at Work Amendment Act aims to make sure more workers are protected and empowered to address unlawful sexual harassment in the workplace.
This means your club must move beyond reactive policies and must proactively prevent:
- sexual harassment
- sex-based harassment
- discrimination
- hostile environments
- victimisation.
Your club must embrace a culture of prevention, accountability, and respect. From boardrooms to locker rooms, the duty applies to all levels of sport. This includes coaches, referees, volunteers, athletes, and administrators.
Australian Human Rights Commission’s 7 standards
The Australian Human Rights Commission’s 7 standards offer a practical framework for compliance:
- Leadership: set the tone from the top with visible commitment.
- Culture: foster respectful behaviours and inclusive values.
- Knowledge: educate all participants on rights and responsibilities.
- Risk management: identify and address risks in sporting environments.
- Support: provide accessible pathways for help and recovery.
- Reporting and response: ensure safe, trusted systems for disclosure.
- Monitoring and transparency: track progress and share outcomes.
When your club uses these standards, it can create environments where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to take part. This is regardless of gender, age, ability, or background.
Related information
Find these pages on the Australian Human Rights Commission website: