WAIS welcomes release of Australian Human Rights Commission report into gymnastics in Australia

The Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) welcomes the release of the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) report following its Independent Review of gymnastics in Australia.

WAIS, as a member of the National Institute Network, endorsed the Gymnastics Australia commissioned review which focussed on understanding the sport’s culture, athlete experience and barriers to reporting misconduct and abuse.

The report identifies systemic issues affecting athlete experience and wellbeing across the sport, particularly regarding the nature and impact of misconduct, bullying, abuse, harassment and assault on athletes.

WAIS acknowledges Gymnastics Australia’s unreserved apology to all athletes and family members who have experienced any form of abuse associated with their participation in the sport.

WAIS Chief Executive Officer, Steven Lawrence, said that in anticipation of the

report’s release, the WAIS Board has called a special meeting for the purpose of thoroughly reviewing the AHRC report and its recommendations. He said the Board will also consider how WAIS can best respond to the report recommendations.

As the release of the AHRC report provides a cultural context for the sport in Australia, it will enhance WAIS’ understanding of the athlete experience in our former Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Program (WAG).

WAIS has also referred historic allegations of mistreatment at its former high performance WAG Program to Sports Integrity Australia (SIA).

Any athlete, family member or person who participated in the WAIS gymnastic program and would like support is able to access the AIS Mental Health Referral Network (MHRN). The MHRN includes a national network of mental health practitioners providing confidential support. It is available via the following: www.ais.gov.au/mhrn or (02) 6214 1130.