AFL launches new respect and responsibility policy

In the wake of a series of incidents, the AFL has launched a newly updated respect and responsibility policy, with all 18 teams to undergo a new education process in the coming months involving inclusion and social policy manager Tanya Hosch and Integrity Operations Manager Tony Keane.

As reported by afl.com.au, clubs were sent a copy of the new policy late on Wednesday, 20 months after the AFL first promised its review.

The updated system involves what's been dubbed the ‘triage stage’, where the seriousness of an incident, its nature and available evidence is assessed by AFL officials before deciding what happens next.

The new 16-page document is the result of extensive consultation with an expert committee chaired by Australia's Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins.

Introducing the policy, AFL Chief Executive Gillon McLachlan admits a newly updated respect and responsibility policy won't be the end of all off-field incidents involving players, but believes the new system is "transparent and trustworthy".

He explained "I don't pretend that this is the end of all incidents or that we still don't have challenges, but I thank the external committee, chair Kate Jenkins and all the people who participated for helping us build a new framework and protocol.

"Our sport is committed to addressing the cultural issues that cause harm to women and girls. We know that it required policies, procedures, education and leadership to address those issues.

"This policy is about making sure that if and when we face incidents in our game that have harmed women, we have a transparent and trustworthy process to deal with complaints.

The new policy includes:

• A clear complaint, investigation and support protocol
• The ability for members of the public to complain
• Increased oversight by the AFL's integrity unit
• Principles and objectives for disciplinary responses to harassment and violence against women
• Maintenance and review mechanisms
• Guidelines for annual reporting to the AFL Commission

Jenkins added "we know that football has fallen down in the past on the management of incidents involving harmful attitudes or actions towards girls and women, and the review of the pre-existing policy was very timely.

"The new protocol is a good outcome, and will be backed by education with every club.

"We need to send a message that individuals will be treated fairly and ensure they are provided with appropriate support."

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