VAFA Statement

The Independent Investigation into a complaint made under the VAFA’s Vilification and Discrimination Policy has been completed.

Whilst it is not the usual policy of the VAFA to comment on such confidential matters, both parties to the case have agreed it is in everyone’s interest for the VAFA to make this statement, given the commentary that has resulted from the media focus on the case.

As a result of the Investigation, a charge was laid against a player for “engaging in conduct unbecoming of a member of the Association”. It was established that the offending player called the aggrieved player “an animal” which clearly caused stress to the aggrieved player and in doing so, the offending player breached her duty of care in ensuring a safe and inclusive on-field environment.

In taking into account all the facts of the case, and the expectations of each party, the Independent Investigator recommended that a face to face apology be provided and the aggrieved player have the opportunity to express her feelings from the incident.

The VAFA facilitated this apology meeting on Monday evening, where both parties were present and resolved the issue. We thank both parties for their role in this reconciliation.

The VAFA acknowledges that this case has drawn broad public focus and comment, which is not in line with the policy recommended confidential basis for dealing with vilification and discrimination matters and protecting the welfare of all parties.

The VAFA is fully committed to providing all our participants and supporters with a safe environment to enjoy our sport, and we will continue to be proactive in implementing best practices in achieving this aim.

In addition to the report, the Investigator also put forward a number of considerations for the attention of the VAFA, regarding:

• statements to be made regarding our Association’s commitment to a safe environment;
• further education of clubs, players and umpires on the Vilification & Discrimination (V&D) policy;
• further resources in servicing the liaising with players involved in V&D cases;
• welfare support for players involved in V&D cases;
• promoting confidentiality in respect to V&D cases

The VAFA is committed to exploring all these considerations for implementation and continuing to work closely with the AFL in ensuring they receive all feedback and recommendations in producing best practice policies in this area.

Jason Reddick
Chief Executive Officer