Australia boasts a long and proud history in sports, showcasing its rich sporting culture on the world stage. Traditions and values in disciplines ranging from cricket and AFL to the Olympics unite our nation. This spirit inspires children to reach the highest levels and fuels community sports every weekend in backyards, on local grounds and in facilities.
Yet, beneath the camaraderie and competition, a persistent issue casts a shadow: racism, an ugly form of learned behaviour that has no place in sports or our communities. In 2024, several incidents have highlighted the ongoing struggle of First Nations Australians against racial discrimination in sports, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change and greater awareness.
In March 2024 former AFL star Eddie Betts, a leader and advocate for Indigenous rights and anti-racism, revealed that his children were racially abused while playing basketball in their own front yard by people driving past in a car. This attack on children underscores the broader societal issue of racism that affects even the youngest members of the First Nations community.
The Australian Football League and National Rugby League have struggled with incidents of racism from players, coaches, staff and spectators. In 2024, several high-profile cases once again brought this issue into the spotlight. Players reported on-field racial slurs and discriminatory behaviour from both opponents and spectators. The leagues are working to address these issues through education programs and stricter penalties, but the recurrence of such incidents indicates that more still needs to be done.
Recently Australian netball player Donnell Wallam recently received a deeply distressing racist letter, which caused a significant public outcry. The letter, filled with hateful and derogatory language, was a stark reminder of the racism that persists within Australian society, particularly towards First Nations people.
Netball Australia and fellow athletes rallied around Wallam, expressing their support and solidarity, highlighting the need for continued efforts to create a safe and inclusive environment for all players. Sports clubs and governing bodies have a crucial role in combating racism, and it will require a great deal of effort and energy from all levels to reinforce the need for change.
These incidents amplify calls for systemic change within Australian sports. Advocates stress the importance of incorporating Indigenous perspectives into decision-making processes and creating safe environments for First Nations athletes. This includes not only addressing incidents of racism as they occur but also fostering a culture of respect and understanding from the grassroots level up.
In the last month, a racial attack on Adelaide Crows player Izak Rankine came to light through a social media comment. The Brisbane Lions swiftly handled the complaint by identifying the offender and removing them as a member, sending a clear message.
And more incidents have happened since the writing of this statement.
Social media has become a double-edged sword for athletes. While it allows fans to connect with their sporting heroes, it also provides a platform for anonymous racial abuse. Throughout 2024, numerous First Nations athletes reported receiving racially charged messages and threats online. This trend is not new but has become more pervasive, with athletes like Betts calling for stricter regulations and accountability for social media platforms to curb online racism. Social media is not to blame, it is a tool that is used by individuals who reflect bad behaviour that does not align to our proud sporting culture.
We know this is happening at a grassroots level (see the article below), and it is completely unacceptable. Reconciliation SA receives notifications of incidents occurring regularly from many sporting codes on racist comments and is taking a stand with Sport SA by delivering Anti-Racism training. This training aims to support bystanders, victims, and leaders who want to see change and address the ugliness that threatens our sporting values and the continued growth of sport in our society.
The persistence of these issues calls for a more robust and proactive approach. It is imperative that sports organisations, governing bodies, and the wider community continue to stand against racism, support affected athletes, and work towards a future where all participants can compete free from discrimination.
Racism diminishes sport, codes, and clubs if it is allowed to persist. We all have a role to play in calling out ignorance, racism, and discrimination. Reconciliation SA welcomes leaders in our community willing to take a positive step to demonstrate their readiness to take action and participate in our program to equip themselves to be at the frontline of change and positively impact the lives and sporting legends of the future.
In the words of Eddie Betts, "Racism is a community issue, and it's everyone's responsibility to address it." As we move forward, let us ensure that the spirit of sportsmanship includes respect, equality, and the celebration of diversity every time we step out onto the arena.
Jason Downs Leah Cassidy
Chief Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer
Reconciliation SA Sport SA
For Further Information email – Admin@ReconciliationSA.org.au