The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) have joined together for each to launch a free online module to help community sporting clubs keep their environments safe.
Chief Executive of SIA, David Sharpe said its new safeguarding module was built on the existing library of material available to clubs and organisations through the ASC’s Game Plan platform.
Mr Sharpe said the new resource and educational tool would support clubs to safeguard children and protect their members.
“We are seeing more and more sporting clubs being proactive with their safeguarding responsibilities and this resource will allow them to self-assess their environment in their bid to provide the best experience possible to their members,” Mr Sharpe said.
Alongside SIA’s safeguarding module, the ASC launched a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion module on Game Plan to help clubs engage with people from all backgrounds.
Chief Executive of the ASC, Kieren Perkins said the two modules complemented each other.
“Sport has a place for all Australians and we must ensure we are providing a welcoming environment for participants and volunteers, no matter their background,” Mr Perkins said.
“Reducing and removing barriers to involvement in sport will encourage more Australians to live an active and healthy lifestyle which is critical to the success of our nation,” he said.
“The ASC is committed to supporting the sector and the resources available through our free Game Plan platform are giving clubs across the country the tools they need to ensure they’re providing the right environment to allow everyone to be the best they can be.”
Welcoming the safeguarding module, the Minister for Sport, Anika Wells said it would give clubs insight into their own safeguarding practices and access to the latest national and State specific resources to help improve safeguarding practices and processes.
“We know the wide-ranging physical, social and mental health benefits of being involved in sport, and clubs are often the first opportunity for people to create a positive relationship with sport,” Ms Wells said.
“Whether it’s as a participant, volunteer, administrator or official, we all have a role to play in ensuring we’re keeping children and adults who are engaging in sport safe while promoting their wellbeing,” she said.
The two new online modules can be accessed at this PS News link.
