The world of motorsport is a special community. At its core, it is filled with generous and passionate members who share a common love of motorsport in all of its forms.
The community performs and functions at its best when everyone is treated with respect and consideration.
When this is done, motorsport events are a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying.
In line with sporting best practice and to help safeguard the motorsport community, Motorsport Australia has a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to all forms of discrimination, harassment and bullying and is proactive in eradicating such behaviour in all its forms.
As part of the Motorsport Australia Respect Code, members commit to valuing each other’s differences and opinions.
Members, through the Code, recognise that “people of all backgrounds can offer a valuable contribution to motorsport and support Motorsport Australia’s commitment to be inclusive and welcome all members of the Australian community into our sport”.
Motorsport Australia General Counsel and Head of Integrity Gabriella Bornstein stated when the motorsport community maintains a high level of respect between members, the whole community and sport benefits, and it performs at its best.
“When every person in the motorsport community treats one another with respect, the sport thrives,” Bornstein said.
“It creates safe, fair, and more enjoyable experiences for everyone involved. It’s part of what keeps people involved with the sport”
“Respect isn’t just about following the rules; it’s about understanding the impact of our words and actions.”
Motorsport Australia encourages all members of the motorsport community to call out poor behaviour or discrimination when it happens, this helps us keep the motorsport community a welcoming and enjoyable place to be. Motorsport Australia is here to support individuals who have suffered from discrimination, bullying or harassment and achieve this we rely on members to report their concerns via the integrity team.
If you believe anyone is in immediate need of protection from harm or in a life-threatening situation, please contact 000 and request Police.
Bornstein added “respect is for and from everyone, from Motorsport Australia’s officials, volunteers, staff and competitors through to spectators and fans. “
“Motorsport Australia officials and volunteers are the backbone of motorsport at all levels, and they deserve an inclusive, respectful environment”
“Respect is not a concept reserved for race weekends; it’s the standard we hold ourselves to in every interaction.”
Competitors, officials, volunteers, crew, staff, and spectators together maintain a motorsport community that is welcoming, friendly and fair.
Head to the Motorsport Australia website for more on the Speak Up, Drive Change webinar.
