The Australian Human Rights Commission have announced a national survey to gauge the participation of transgender, gender diverse and intersex people in sport.
Human Rights Commissioner Tim Wilson will conduct the survey to ensure the rights of these groups are protected in Australian sporting codes.
“Participation in sports is part of the Australian identity and helps promote health, wellbeing, fair play and a culture of mateship,” Mr Wilson says.
“Not enough empirical data has been collected on the experiences of trans, gender diverse and intersex people in Australian sports. We hope that this consultation will assist in filling this gap at a national level.”
The results of Commissioner Wilson’s survey will be used to guide the National Anti-Homophobia and Inclusion Framework. Developed by Bingham Cup Sydney 2014, the framework currently informs the AFL, NRL, Football Federation Australia, Cricket Australia and Australian Rugby Union.
The Commission will also conduct a review of federal legislation, as well as local and national policies of sporting codes.
“During the Commission’s recent national consultation, transgender, gender diverse and intersex people reported positive experiences in sport participation; others said they have experienced exclusion, violence and harassment on the basis of their gender identity or intersex status,” Mr Wilson said.
“The Australia we should all want is one where everyone feels safe and capable of performing to their best. That happens when we get rid of pointless discrimination and bring about a culture of safety and inclusion.”
The online survey opens today and will be available until September 3rd 2015.
OIP Staff
