National Integrity Framework: The Member Protection Policy

In previous blog posts, ASAPD has introduced the broader National Integrity Framework and discussed the Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy. Today, we will introduce you to another crucial aspect of our commitment to safety and well-being in sports: the Member Protection Policy (MPP).

What is the Member Protection Policy?

The MPP seeks to ensure that everyone involved with ASAPD is aware of their rights and responsibilities. It sets the standards of behaviour expected and the behaviours that are not acceptable (‘Prohibited Conduct’). It aims to:

• Provide a safe environment for all participants;
• Safeguard the safety and well-being of everyone involved in sports; and
• Clearly define key terms: abuse, bullying, harassment discrimination, sexual misconduct, vilification and victimisation.

By setting clear guidelines and procedures, the MPP enables participants in sport to regulate their own behaviours and offers a framework for addressing issues when they arise.

What is Prohibited Conduct Under the MPP?

Prohibited Conduct, as defined by the MPP, encompasses actions or behaviours that are unacceptable within ASAPD:

• Abuse, whether physical, emotional, psychological or sexual.
• Bullying and the misuse of power, where actions are repeated and deliberate.
• Harassment, including unwanted behaviours which are reasonably likely to cause harm.
• Sexual harassment and sexual offences.
• Discrimination, whether deliberate or inadvertent.
• Victimisation of anyone who chooses to speak out, make a complaint, or plans to.
• Vilification of anyone based on a particular characteristic, as covered by legislation.

A short video on the Member Protection Policy is available here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tRViVX-GRAhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1d13dRce8Y

Reporting a Breach

If you have witnessed or experienced behaviour that violates the MPP, it’s crucial to bring it to our attention. Reporting is not about “dobbing”, rather, it’s an opportunity for positive change.

For serious matters like discrimination, complaints should be directed to Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) via this link. Please note that only discrimination which has occurred after we signed the NIF on 19 September 2023 can be reported to SIA.

For matters which do not involve safeguarding concerns or discrimination, or occurred prior to us signing the NIF, please contact ASAPD directly at NIM@asapd.org, or through our website.

Still unsure where to turn? Call SIA on 1300 027 232 for confidential guidance on the most appropriate course of action.

Understanding Sanctions

Sanctions are the consequences someone faces if they have been found to have breached the MPP. Sanctions for MPP breaches vary based on several factors:

1. The type of sanction which the person who was the victim of the behaviour has requested;
2. The type of prohibited conduct found to have been engaged in;
3. The nature of the prohibited conduct;
4. Whether the conduct was a singular occurrence or ongoing behaviour;
5. Whether the conduct or behaviour was first time instance or whether the person found to have engaged in other forms of disciplinary problems;
6. Circumstances which may help reduce a sanction (known as mitigating factors) or circumstances which may justify a harsher penalty (known as aggravating factors).

To ensure consistent handling of breaches, ASAPD will adopt case categorisation levels to determine appropriate sanctions. A detailed article on case categorisation is currently in the works, however those seeking immediate information can search online for ‘Sport Integrity Australia Case Categorisation & Guidance for Sanctions’ to access a guide provided by Sport Integrity Australia.

Further Information

Throughout 2024, ASAPD will provide educational resources on various NIF policies via newsletters and our social media channels. Additionally, SIA offers free e-learning courses to anyone involved in sport, which can be accessed here. These courses are excellent professional development for athletes, coaches, volunteers and staff alike. Completing these courses is a good way to demonstrate your commitment to helping ASAPD and the broader Australian sporting community safe. Knowledge is empowering