Sport Integrity Australia CEO David Sharpe has welcomed the announcement by New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Sport Grant Robertson on the establishment of an independent sport integrity body.
The new body, which will include the anti-doping functions of Drug Free Sport New Zealand along with the integrity capabilities currently performed by Sport NZ, will ensure global integrity threats are targeted through one national coordination body.
Mr Sharpe says Sport Integrity Australia has formed a powerful alliance with New Zealand over the years, with the two countries enjoying a close working relationship.
“New Zealand deals with similar issues to Australia and Drug Free Sport New Zealand has provided vital input on a number of projects, including on the formation of Sport Integrity Australia,” Mr Sharpe says.
“The agency’s guidance has been invaluable as we navigated strengthening integrity in sport in Australia and we look forward to returning the favour.”
Mr Sharpe says the inception of the New Zealand sport integrity body will further enhance our relationship and strengthen capacity in the Oceania region.
“Together we will work to protect sport from integrity threats in this region, of which there are many. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with New Zealand counterparts on significant projects in future.
