Government accepts ACCC advice for continuation of goal post safety standard

Moveable goal posts, which are subject to a safety standard due to the risk of toppling over, have been reviewed by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

With his responsibility for consumer affairs, Federal Small Business Minister Michael McCormack, has today accepted the ACCC’s advice the current safety standard should continue.

Minister McCormack stated “soccer (football) is a very popular sport within many Australian communities, with more and more people of all ages joining local clubs and competitions each year.

“As this year’s winter football season approaches and clubs shortly begin registration, parents and clubs can have confidence the standard continues to provide Australians with an appropriate level of safety.”

First commencing in 2011, the safety standard includes key features which reduce the risk of injuries and trauma to the head, neck, chest and limbs caused by unstable sets of moveable goal posts as used for football.

Since the standard’s introduction there have been no deaths associated with these goals.

Minister McCormack added “as a parent I have spent many weekends standing on the side of a kids’ soccer game and know how popular moveable soccer goals are with children and families at sporting clubs, school playgrounds and in the backyard.

“By continuing this safety standard, we are protecting our children’s safety and ensuring fun in the backyard and exercise on the soccer pitch stays safe.”

The ACCC consulted with a range of stakeholders, including Government, retailers and sporting organisations during the review. Stakeholders supported retaining the safety standard without change.

Click here for further information on the safety standard. 

Image courtesy of Peter Miranda Sports 

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