Homophobia in Sport

The Hon. R.A. SIMMS (15:18): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before addressing a question without notice to the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing on the topic of homophobia in sport.

Leave granted.

The Hon. R.A. SIMMS: Last month, the Adelaide Crows footballer—I note your tie, Mr President—Izak Rankine was handed a four-game ban from the AFL for his homophobic remark to a Collingwood opponent in round 23. Speaking at a media conference yesterday, Rankine announced that he will personally apologise to his teammates and the AFL squad for his use of the slur. Rankine is the sixth AFL-listed player banned for an on-field homophobic comment in the last 16 months. I asked the minister in the last sitting period whether she had had any discussions with the AFL about this matter, and she advised that she had been in contact with the Crows and asked them what steps they are taking. My questions to the minister, therefore, are:

1. Can she provide this chamber with an update on any discussions she has had with the Adelaide Crows or the AFL about eliminating homophobia in football?

2. What action has the Malinauskas government and the minister taken on this matter since the last sitting period?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (15:19): I thank the member for his question. As I have highlighted before, sport is a space for everyone to be able to participate and feel safe. As I have also highlighted and provided connection with the member, and with the Crows as well, to get that feedback, I have been very clear that if there are ideas and ways that we can move forward, I am all ears.

I believe the Crows also are interested in hearing that feedback as well, and that is the advice I have received. I am open to having those conversations further, so I welcome your advice. I welcome bringing the Crows and yourself together to be able to continue those conversations as well, because I think we learn best when we listen, and I welcome that feedback.