The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) has launched a collaboration with the New Zealand anti-doping Agency, Drug Free Sport New Zealand (DFSNZ) to share resources, intelligence and information.
Meeting for the first time in Canberra, representative s of the two Agencies discussed new ways to support clean athletes and detect doping in the region.
Key topics discussed included new approaches to build anti-doping capacity in the region; the use of innovative technologies in education; ways to strengthen the voice of athletes in anti-doping in each country; the risk of supplements to athletes; whistleblower systems and support.
Chief Executive of ASADA, David Sharpe said many of the opportunities and challenges facing ASADA were shared by other anti-doping Agencies around the world.
“This collaboration will enable both ASADA and DFSNZ to pool their resources and expertise in developing innovative approaches to education, intelligence and detection, ultimately for the benefit of athletes in both Australia and New Zealand,” Mr Sharpe said.
“We are extremely fortunate to be able to draw on the expertise and experience of our DFSNZ counterparts, and look forward to the continuation of this invaluable partnership.”
He said the inaugural meeting of the two Agencies was a milestone in strengthening the intent to collaborate towards protecting clean sport in Australia and New Zealand now and into the future.
Chief Executive of DFSNZ, Nick Paterson said the pursuit of clean sport was a global issue.
“It is crucial that anti-doping organisations work together to enhance their operations and learn from one another,” Mr Paterson said.
