The Australian Human Rights Commission has today published their report following their independent review of the culture and practices of gymnastics in Australia. Gymnastics Australia commissioned the independent review in August 2020 in response to reports from the gymnastics community of unacceptable personal experiences. The report was commissioned to better understand the sport’s culture, athlete experience and any barriers to reporting misconduct or abuse – right across the sport from local clubs to states and territories and at the national level.

The report is confronting, identifying systemic issues that affect athlete experience and wellbeing at all levels of the sport including a focus on ‘winning-at-all-costs’, silencing of the athlete voice, an unhealthy focus on the ‘ideal body’, particularly for young female athletes, and an acceptance of archaic and authoritarian coaching practises. The report also references experiences from members of the gymnastics community of abuse that are deeply concerning.

Gymnastics Australia unreservedly apologises to all athletes and family members who have experienced any form of abuse participating in the sport. We also thank the athletes and other community members who engaged in the review process and acknowledge their bravery in doing so.

Gymnastics Australia thanks the Australian Human Rights Commission for its considered findings and will adopt all 12 recommendations contained in the report. We look forward to working with our state & territory associations, clubs and athlete community and also Sport Integrity Australia as part of this process.

The Board of Gymnastics Australia will oversee the response to the report. The Gymnastics Australia Integrity Committee, that was established last year, will provide oversight of the implementation of the recommendations. We will regularly and transparently update the community on our progress.

While important work has been undertaken in recent years to improve policies, education and support mechanisms for our athletes and coaches across child safety and athlete wellbeing, there is clearly more to be done. The Gymnastics Australia Board and management acknowledge this work needs to be underpinned by transformational cultural change across all levels of gymnastics in Australia.

We have an unwavering commitment to provide an environment that respects the rights and supports the wellbeing of every participant from the grass roots through to the state and national levels of the sport. We want a sport where the athlete is safe, empowered and their experience is one of personal fulfilment.

• This media release was published by Gymnastics Australia on 3 May 2021. Click here for the original.