Ms O’CONNOR question to MINISTER for SPORT and EVENTS, Mr DUIGAN
I have a follow‑up question to the minister for Sport and Events following the question that was asked yesterday about the podcast prepared by Camille Bianchi in relation to allegations about some staff who were employed at Athletics Tasmania. Does the minister have any new information? Have you sought a briefing from your department? Do you have an update for the House?
ANSWER
Mr President, yes, I have received some information about the issue that was raised yesterday. I note that I believe those events were in and around 2020. I believe the department conducted an investigation into matters raised in the podcast. I will quickly seek some further advice.
I have some lines here that are along the lines of what I was saying. What I would say is the safety of our athletes has always been and continues to be a priority for the government, to ensure they are treated with care and respect. In any matters related to allegations of improper behaviour toward children, we would encourage people to report these to Tasmania Police.
I cannot speak for Athletics Tasmania or Athletics Australia, but in relation to the Tasmanian Institute of Sport, I am aware that it has child safeguarding policies and practices in place and in action. Importantly, the TIS and sporting institutes nationally have also developed a strong culture of reporting behaviours that do not align with ensuring child safety.
I note the podcast the member referred to contains historical concerns. Those interviewed acknowledged that the issues do not involve current staff or coaches. I am advised any allegations or concerns regarding the behaviour of staff and employees of the department are reviewed appropriately. I am further advised that in 2020 the Department of Communities Tasmania undertook an independent investigation into the concerns raised by the individual in the podcast that the member has referred to. The government is aware that these matters have been raised with previous ministers as well as the sporting organisations. I am advised that the department in all its iterations took all complaints seriously and acted accordingly. In 2023, the department undertook a desktop review of paperwork provided and understands that the matters were also referred by a complainant to Tasmania Police.
At a national level, Sport Integrity Australia provides the Safe Sport Hotline, 1800 161 361, which operates 365 days per year, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This provides an anonymous reporting capability for anyone who feels they have been discriminated against in their sport. There is no indication that any Tasmanian Institute of Sport (TIS) coaches currently or historically have been reported to the hotline. I would also say to the member, if she becomes aware of matters such as this and has concerns about them, then by all means feel free to raise them with me, my office, or the relevant authorities as soon as possible. These are things that we would like to accelerate beyond the opportunity in a parliamentary question time.
Ms O’Connor – Yes, that is fair.
