Orienteering NSW have signed up to two important new initiatives ‘Play by the Rules’ and ‘It stops with me’.
Play by the Rules is a unique program from the Australian Sports Commission, which has evolved over the last 10 years to provide free information, resources, online training and promotional campaigns aimed at ensuring everyone involved in sport can do so in an enjoyable, safe environment, free from discrimination, harassment or bullying. Supported and funded by the federal, state and territory governments it works with sports and their clubs and associations, to communicate messages about positive behaviour in sport. There are online learning courses available which can be found at http://www.playbytherules.net.au/interactive-scenarios/free-online-training. There are currently two modules ‘Child Protection’ and ‘Harassment and Discrimination’ which uses case studies, practical scenarios and a quiz to bring users up to date on their legal obligations, as well as how to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for newcomers to the sport.
‘It stops with me’ is an anti-racism campaign which aims to encourage more Australians to recognise that racism is unacceptable, to give them the practical tools and resources to take practical action against racism, empowering them to take action to prevent or respond to racism where it occurs. By signing up to the campaign ONSW acknowledges that everyone has a role to play in countering racism; ‘It stops with me’ provides the thought provoking tools and resources to help us think a little more deeply about the problem.
We may hope that orienteering doesn’t suffer from these problems, but as we grow as a community we need to be aware of the diversity of people that may be attracted to our sport. Continuing to make Orienteering a safe and enjoyable community for everyone is worth the investment of time and thought. Please visit Play by the Rules and It stops with me! Websites and have a look.
