The Hon Rod Kemp was Minister for the Arts and Sport from Friday 23 November 2001 to Tuesday 30 January 2007. This site is available for archival purposes only.

Second stage of Anderson report tabled

The Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, today tabled the Second Stage Report of the Inquiry by the Hon Robert Anderson QC into specific allegations regarding doping violations by members of the Australian cycling squad.  A copy of Senator Kemp's Tabling Statement is attached.

Mr Anderson was commissioned by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and Cycling Australia (CA) in June 2004 and the First Stage Report was tabled on 29 July 2004.

The second stage of Mr Anderson's investigation focused on the adequacy of management and supervision of athletes at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Del Monte facility during 2003 in respect of detection and prevention of doping offences; and the appropriateness and effectiveness of steps taken by the ASC, CA or any other relevant organisation following the discovery of materials in Del Monte on 2 December 2003.

'It is clear from the findings of the report there was no cover up by the ASC or CA.  The report also found there was no evidence of a "shooting gallery" at Del Monte facility, habitual widespread drug use or group injecting sessions.  In fact, Mr Anderson said that these allegations had caused serious personal prejudice to the innocent cyclists embroiled in this matter.

'These allegations should no longer tarnish the reputation of our elite cyclists.

'One cyclist has been found guilty of a drug offence and is being dealt with in accordance with relevant anti-doping policies, another cyclist was found to misrepresent his involvement, and all other cyclists named have been cleared of any wrong-doing,' Senator Kemp said.

The report includes a range of suggestions regarding detection and prevention of doping offences many of which are being implemented by the AIS and the ASC.

'One of the key recommendations put forward by Mr Anderson is the establishment of an investigatory body independent from the AIS, the ASC and National Sporting Organisations. The Government has been considering and discussing with the ASC and the Australian Sports Drug Agency options for investigating doping allegations and better management of hearings,' Senator Kemp said.

'I have today released a discussion paper for public comment on a potential new independent body for investigating doping allegations. The Government would be pleased to hear from all interested organisations and individuals on this very important issue.

'The Australian Government has a very proud track record in the fight against doping in sport. We are proud that our anti-doping programs have helped establish standards for the world sporting community.'

The Second Stage Report, as well as the Second Addendum to the First Stage Report and the Sequel to the Second Addendum, are available online at www.dcita.gov.au.

CANBERRA

18 November 2004
Media contact:  Adrian Chippindale, 02 6277 7350 or 0407 208 743