Netball Victoria has issued the following statement in response to recent media coverage of our trans and gender diverse players
Netball Victoria proudly supports an inclusive and welcoming environment that enables people from all backgrounds to participate in our sport safely and equitably, at all levels of our game.
This includes trans and gender diverse athletes, whose participation in female, male or mixed competitions is guided by strict rules that align with the policies of both Netball Australia and the Australian Sports Commission, as well as meeting our responsibilities under equal opportunity and human rights law.
These laws require netball, like other community sports, to recognise non-binary players’ chosen gender and allow them to play in the competition they are comfortable with.
If concern about safety or fairness is raised, Netball Victoria will work to find an appropriate course of action in the interests of all parties, keeping in mind that our umpires are trained to apply rules designed to govern the game and ensure the safety of those on court. As well, Netball Victoria and affiliate competitions regularly apply guidelines to ensure players of all genders and backgrounds are playing at a level that is most appropriate to their skill and athletic ability.
