Athletics Australia acknowledges the decision overnight by the World Athletics Council to update the eligibility regulations for transgender and DSD athletes.
As a Member Federation of World Athletics, Athletics Australia respects the decision and is required to abide by the rules set out by World Athletics for elite competition. We acknowledge that this a complex and emotive subject and one that sporting organisations around the world, especially at the elite level, continue to grapple with.
In saying this, Athletics Australia has its own community level guidelines for the participation of trans and gender diverse athletes within Australian athletics. These guidelines are underpinned by the principle of inclusion and are designed to ensure that athletics remains a sport that is welcoming and accessible to every Australian.
We acknowledge the impact a decision like that of World Athletics can have on transgender and DSD athletes and members of the broader community. Athletics Australia supports the WA Council agreement to set up a Working Group to further consult and consider the issue of transgender inclusion and make further recommendations to the Council. Athletics Australia is committed to ensuring that athlete welfare at all levels and inclusion at the community participation level remains a priority in Australian athletics.
Jan Swinhoe, Athletics Australia President &
Peter Bromley, Athletics Australia CEO
Posted: 24/3/2023
