Despite Senator Kemp’s assurances in the Senate yesterday that the whole-of-soccer inquiry would investigate matters surrounding the Matildas, the Australian Sports Commission appears to have rejected his directive.
Senator Kemp told the Senate yesterday the inquiry would “seek the views of all stakeholders on these issues” and that he has “asked the Australian Sports Commission to look very closely into those particular matters” which I raised.
Yet the Australian Sports Commission issued a media release late yesterday claiming:
It is not appropriate that these historical matters be the subject of the current review of soccer in Australia.
Senator Kemp should tell the Australian Sports Commission to stop defying his authority and get on with the job.
The Minister’s inquiry must investigate both allegations that some members of the Matildas were duped into appearing in the so-called topless toothpaste TV ad, as well as alleged financial irregularities involving the Australian Women’s Soccer Association.
The questions surrounding the whereabouts of $2 million worth of public sports funding is no minor matter and the Sports Commission must take these concerns seriously.
The public and past and present members of Australia’s women’s soccer team expect no less.
The Minister for Sport must assert his authority and release the terms of reference so that this inquiry can start as soon as possible.
Media contact: Simon Tatz on 6277 3334 or 0418 488 295
