Minister for Sport, John Eren, today released the review into the governance and integrity of boxing and combat sports.
The Review of Regulation of Professional Boxing and Combat Sports in Victoria, undertaken by Peter Harmsworth AO, recommends new governance arrangements and reforms to overhaul existing regulations.
The Andrews Labor Government has made upholding the integrity of boxing and combat sports a priority. It will now consider the recommendations and commence consultations with relevant stakeholders.
A key recommendation of the review is the establishment of a Professional Combat Sports Authority, which would be responsible for the regulation of the industry.
The authority would work with the support of the Department of Health and Human Services, which would provide advice on licence applications and oversee weigh-ins and promotions.
The review recommended legislative changes to restore the primacy of Victoria Police recommendations on whether a licence applicant is a “fit and proper person”. The current legislation, introduced by the previous Liberal Government in 2013, does not require the board to implement the Chief Commissioner’s advice. The Labor Government will closely consider legislative change.
Like all Victorian Government boards, the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board is subject to regular scrutiny, and its performance closely monitored.
However, the review highlights that while the Government has been well served by the Board, there are a number of weaknesses in its structure, skill make up and potential conflicts of interest.
Mr Eren said the Labor Government will use the review to ensure decisions on licence holders are in line with community expectations and the integrity of the industry is safeguarded.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, John Eren
“Boxing and combat sports must be governed at the highest standards.”
“We will closely consider all recommendations and use them to reform the governance of boxing and combat sports, to uphold the industry’s integrity in Victoria.”
“The Andrews Labor Government closely monitors the performance and conduct of all government-appointed boards.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020