Complaints concerning a sport
Scope
The Australian Sports Commission does not handle complaints related to the operation of sport organisations, clubs or associations.
The Australian Sports Commission does not have the authority to intervene or conduct reviews into the outcomes of complaint handling processes conducted by sport organisations.
If the matter relates to the safety of a child and they are in imminent danger, contact the Police immediately. You may also report to state and territory based child protection agencies.
If you have a complaint concerning a sport or sport organisation
The following options are available:
- Contact Sport Integrity Australia if the matter relates to a sport integrity issue.
- Contact the National Sports Tribunal for independent sport-dispute resolution.
- Lodge your complaint with the sport at the level at which the issue has occurred (that is, if it is a club issue then it should be initially dealt with at club level; if it’s a state or national issue direct it to the appropriate organisation). All National Sporting Organisations recognised by the ASC are required to have a Member Protection Policy and a complaints handling procedure.
- Visit Play by the Rules to find out more information about making and resolving complaints related to sports organisations.
- Contact the Australian Human Rights Commission or a state/territory anti-discrimination or equal opportunity agency for advice if the matter relates to discrimination, harassment or bullying based on a person’s gender, race, age or disability. Note that discrimination in sport is legal in some circumstances, for example, age-graded teams or single-sex competitions.
- If the matter relates to potential criminal activity, including sexual or physical assault, contact your local Police.