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.
Sports Minister welcomes new initiative to encourage fair play
The Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp today welcomed the launch of a revised online resource, Play by the Rules designed to encourage a fun and safe sporting experience for all participants in Australian sport.
Play by the Rules is an unique partnership between the Australian Sports Commission, the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, all state/territory sport and recreation and anti-discrimination agencies, the NSW Commission for Children and Young People and the QLD Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian to safeguard the rights of all participants in Australian sport including players, administrators, officials and coaches.
Senator Kemp said the web site offered effective strategies to enable the sports industry to improve access and opportunities for people to enjoy the benefits of sport.
“Sporting organisations have a responsibility to ensure the playing environment is fun, safe and fair for all participants to enjoy a positive experience,” Senator Kemp said.
“Play by the Rules provides strategies and advice for the sports industry to tackle abuse, harassment and discrimination which pose a threat to the integrity of the Australian sports system and the health and safety of its participants.
“We are encouraging sporting organisations to set an example in eliminating harassment and discrimination in sport and to promote the values of honesty, integrity and fairness. Sport can serve as a vehicle to promote the values of fair play, team work and leadership in wider society.”
Play by the Rules will offer effective strategies to help sporting organisations:
- Decrease incidence of harassment, abuse and other inappropriate behaviour
- Promote and instil positive values such as good sports and fair play
- Clarify the rights and responsibilities of all participants
- Tackle inappropriate behaviour such as abuse, harassment and discrimination
- Promote the effective handling of complaints.
Senator Kemp said the Australian Government recognises that protecting the health and safety of all sports participants is critical to the future growth and viability of Australian sport.
“We look forward to working with the sports industry to promote a positive sports environment to benefit the health and safety of all Australians.”
MELBOURNE
25 November 2005
Media contact: Michael Christo 02 6277 7350 or 0409 040 276