Member Protection

Our commitment to member protection & sporting integrity 

The Canberra Rowing Club is committed to providing a safe, fair and inclusive environment for all participants, coaches, volunteers and families. We have formally adopted, and adhere strictly to Rowing Australia’s National Integrity Framework (NIF) developed closely with Sport Integrity Australia.

The NIF incorporates several policies that seek to ensure that everyone in the rowing community: 

  • is protected from abuse, discrimination, harassment, and bullying 

  • safeguards the wellbeing of junior members and young people involved in club activities 

  • has an avenue, and in some cases the obligation, to report conduct that is inconsistent with these policies 

  • can participate in drug-free competitions free from manipulation. 

All members of Canberra Rowing Club must be familiar with these policies and comply with their obligations at all times. 

Short summary of Rowing Australia code of conduct and relevant policies 

Code of Conduct 

The Rowing Australia Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected of everyone involved in our sport — athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and parents/guardians. It requires members to: 

  • act ethically, honestly and fairly in all dealings with others in the sport 

  • treat fellow members, coaches, volunteers and officials with respect and courtesy 

  • comply with all applicable Rowing Australia and Club policies, rules and regulations 

  • behave responsibly around alcohol and other substances and not be intoxicated at Club activities 

  • respect Club and rowing venue facilities and equipment 

  • report any breach of the Code of Conduct or other unethical conduct they witness. 

The Code applies to in person and online conduct (including on social media). It imposes additional obligations on coaches and other support personnel — such as prioritising athlete health, safety and wellbeing above performance, avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining appropriate professional relationships with junior athletes. 

The Member Protection Policy 

The Member Protection Policy sets minimum standards of behaviour for everyone involved in rowing, and outlines the Club's and Rowing Australia's commitment to preventing: 

  • bullying, harassment and discrimination 

  • abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional) 

  • victimisation of anyone who raises a concern in good faith 

  • breaches of privacy and confidentiality relating to members. 

Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy 

This policy applies specifically where children and young people (under 18) are involved in Club activities. It sets out: 

  • the Club's duty of care to junior members 

  • requirements for coaches, volunteers and officials working with juniors (including Working with Vulnerable People check requirements, where applicable) 

  • expected standards of conduct for adults interacting with junior members 

  • how to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns. 

Complaints, Disputes and Discipline Policy 

This policy sets out how complaints about breaches of any National Integrity Framework policy (including the Member Protection Policy and the Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy) are raised, investigated and resolved. It provides: 

  • a clear, independent process for handling complaints, developed in partnership with the National Sports Tribunal 

  • multiple reporting pathways — through the Club, Rowing ACT/Rowing Australia, or directly to Sport Integrity Australia 

  • protection against victimisation for anyone who raises a concern in good faith 

  • procedural fairness for all parties involved in a complaint 

  • referral to police or other external authorities where a matter involves potential criminal conduct. 

Link to relevant Rowing Australia policies and Code of Conduct 

Have a Concern or Complaint? 

If you witness or experience behaviour you believe is inappropriate or unsafe, or breaches our policies, we encourage you to speak up. 

External Reporting Options 

Concerns or complaints can be raised with Rowing Australia or Sport Integrity Australia – see links below: 

·      Rowing Australia / Sport Integrity Australia 

CRC Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO) 

The club’s MPIO is John Cousins [email: john@canberrarowingclub.org.au]. If you wish to raise an inquiry or complaint with a member of the club, John can be the first point of contact and can provide information about your options and the reporting process. The role of the MPIO is not to investigate a complaint.  

For immediate danger or criminal activity, always contact local law enforcement (e.g., dial Triple Zero 000 in Australia).