NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation Graham Annesley says the integrity of sport in NSW has been further strengthened after introducing tough penalties for match fixing.
NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation Graham Annesley says the integrity of sport in NSW has been further strengthened after introducing tough penalties for match fixing.
"There is no bigger threat to the integrity of sport than match fixing. NSW is leading the way as the first jurisdiction in Australia to pass such legislation," Annesley said.
"With a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment the O'Farrell Government is sending a very strong message to anyone contemplating match fixing.”
This legislation creates offences for any person who intentionally fixes or attempts to fix the outcome of a sporting event including the following:
- Deliberate underperformance; - Withdrawal (tanking); - An official-s deliberate misapplication of the rules of the contest; - Interference with the play or playing surfaces; or - Any other action or omission designed to influence the outcome of a game or contingency.
Coalition of Major Professional & Participation Sports (COMPSS) Executive Director, Malcolm Speed, said he looked forward to other states and territories following suit to establish a nationally consistent approach.
“The NSW Government legislation is a significant step in creating a national safeguard against corruption in sport. On behalf of the members of COMPPS I congratulate the NSW Government for their leadership and we look forward to other states and territories introducing their own legislation along with betting integrity agreement legislation,” Mr Speed said.
“The combination of cheating in sport legislation and integrity agreement legislation across States and Territories will give sport the best legislative framework to combat the increasing threat of corruption in sport,” Mr Speed added.
FFA CEO Ben Buckley commended Minister Annesley for championing the new legal sanctions.
“The NSW Government are now leading the way to a national response to the very serious threats to the integrity of sport,” said Buckley.
“Minister Annesley-s actions show his personal commitment to ensuring professional sport in NSW has protections against cheating and corrupt behaviour.”