Our introduction of the National Integrity Framework (NIF) continues with an explanation of the Improper Use of Drugs and Medicine Policy (IUDMP).
Like the other NIF policies, ASAPD is among the many National Sporting Organisations or National Sporting Organisations (NSOs) for people with Disability (NSODs) that have embraced and put into practice the NIF. This initiative aims to establish consistent standards of conduct within the Australian sporting community, fostering a safer, more equitable and inclusive environment for all participants.
Key Points to Understand about the IUDMP
The primary aim of the IUDMP is to safeguard athletes from potential harm arising from the improper use of medicines, illegal drugs, and supplements. Similar to other policies in the NIF suite, the IUDMP features video introductions available at the following links or an Auslan version for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
This policy is more limited than other policies in the NIF suite, in that it part of the policy only applies to relevant athletes, which are defined as international level athletes and national level athletes. The part which is only limited to these athletes is the component on supplements, medicines and injections.
Aligned with other NIF policies, the IUDMP explicitly outlines prohibited conduct, encompassing behaviour which is deemed unacceptable. For the purpose of this policy, prohibited conduct includes:
- Unlawful use of prescription medicine and over the counter (OTC) medicine;
- Unauthorised injection or possession of hypodermic injection equipment (dry needling and acupuncture needles would not be a breach);
- Supplying prohibited supplements to a relevant athlete;
- Being convicted of a serious drug offence;
- Being complicity or implicated in any form of prohibited conduct;
- Failing to report breaches of this policy.
Each of the above behaviours or actions is elaborated upon in the policy for a more comprehensive understanding. For example, unlawful use of medicine or supplements would be when the medicine is not used for a permitted purpose, such as a vaccination or to treat a documented medical condition. However, if medicine is needed for a lifesaving purpose, it is not a breach to provide that medicine.
The overall message is however clear – if you require medicine or supplements, only use them under the guidance and supply from appropriate professionals (such as a doctor or pharmacist), adhering strictly to the prescribed directions. When in doubt regarding medicine or supplements, consult the appropriate professionals rather than relying on advice from friends or family members.
What the IUDMP is Not
It is crucial to understand that the IUDMP differs from the anti-doping policy that governs many Australian sports, although it complements the anti-doping regulations. The current Australian National Anti-doping Policy (ANADP) was established on 1 January 2021 and aligns with the World Anti-Doping Agency Code, subject to regular updates. However, in cases of inconsistency between the IUDMP and the ANADP, in relation to a prohibited medicine or supplements, the ANADP will take precedence and be enforced.
The ANADP aims to establish a uniform and robust set of anti-doping regulations applicable in Australia. Individuals who suspect an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) must report their concerns to Sport Integrity Australia here.
I Think the IUDMP Has Been Breached – Who Do I Complain To?
If you suspect breaches of the IUDMP, reports should be reported to ASAPD. Complaints can be lodged with our National Integrity Manager via email at NIM@asapd.org, who will provide a link to the complaint form for specific details to be provided.
Complaints concerning breaches of the IUDMP will be handled according to the processes and requirements outlined in the Complaints, Disputes and Discipline Policy. The purpose of this policy is to create standardised processes and procedures for handling complaints, minimising the risk of procedural unfairness and ensuring natural justice for all parties involved. If a breach of the IUDMP is substantiated, the case categorisation model will be employed to hold accountable any individuals or sporting organisations responsible for misconduct or wrongdoing, and to determine appropriate sanctions based on the circumstances.
Further Information
Throughout 2024, ASAPD has been providing short education articles on each of the NIF policies and areas of concern through blogs, newsletters and our social media channels. If you haven’t had the chance to look at our previous blogs, you can visit our News page to access them. And we encourage you to sign up to our Newsletter for future updates. ASAPD believes that proactive education on each policy will mitigate instances of misconduct in sport, fostering a safer environment for all participants.
Additionally, Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) has developed a series of free e-learning short courses covering each of the topics, designed to be completed at your own pace and can be accessed by registering here. These courses are valuable for professional development, benefiting athletes, coaches, volunteers and staff alike. While participation in these courses is not mandatory for every member in our organisation, completing them signifies our dedication to ensuring the safety of our community and contributes to the broader safety of the Australian sporting community. It’s about embracing the idea that ‘knowledge is empowering’ rather than adhering to the old adage ‘knowledge is power’.