The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has commenced public consultation as part of its Independent Review of the sport of gymnastics in Australia.
The Commission said it was undertaking the Review at the request of Gymnastics Australia, with the support of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and the National Institute Network.
“The Review will build an understanding of the sport’s culture and identify systemic issues impacting upon athlete experience and barriers to reporting misconduct to inform future, better practice to ensure safety and inclusivity,” the AHRC said.
Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins said the Commission would conduct interviews and focus groups as well as accepting written submissions from former and current athletes and their families, coaches, officials, administrators, as well as former and current staff.
“With the spotlight on human rights of athletes globally this is a landmark project for the sport of gymnastics in Australia, and we expect the findings to inform future practice across sport more broadly,” Ms Jenkins said.
“Any member of the gymnastics community in Australia, past or present, is encouraged to participate in the Review,” she said.
“Your experiences will be heard and will form an important part of the Review’s findings and recommendations for change.”
Ms Jenkins said all information gathered through the focus groups, interviews and written submissions would be used in a de-identified manner and treated as confidential.
“The Review will also consider current policies and practices relating to the safety and wellbeing of athletes within the sport,” she said.
The Commission said interviews and focus groups would be conducted over the next two months, and written submissions would be accepted until 10 January.
It said a public report with findings and recommendations for change would be published in the first quarter of 2021.
Further information on the Review, including how to participate can be accessed at this PS News link.
