Queensland athletes big winners from new anti-doping legislation: Fraser

November 28, 2006

Queensland athletes big winners from new anti-doping legislation: Fraser

Athletes who play clean and fair will soon enjoy even greater protection from drug cheats following the introduction of new legislation into State Parliament today.

Sport Minister Andrew Fraser said the Sports Drug Testing Amendment Bill 2006 would help protect the health and safety of athletes, maintain consistency with national and international standards and further enhance Queensland’s enviable sporting reputation.

Mr Fraser said the proposed amendments complemented recent federal initiatives, including the establishment of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA), in response to the World Anti-Doping Code and the International Convention Against Doping in Sport.

“These changes reinforce Queensland’s strong stance against drug cheats,” he said.

“They are directed fairly and squarely at that small minority of athletes who sully the spirit of sport and undermine the achievements of others by taking banned substances.”

Mr Fraser said the amendments would pave the way for ASADA to deliver drug testing and educational services to Queensland athletes, through agreements with the Commonwealth.

“We are currently engaged with 20 state sporting organisations to deliver anti-doping services through ASADA and these agreements are central to our Drug-Free Sport program.

“They will also ensure appropriate services to support the programs run by the Queensland Academy of Sport.”

Mr Fraser said Queensland’s priority sports for ASADA services in 2006-07 were athletics, baseball, canoeing, cycling, handball, hockey, motor cycling, motor sports, powerlifting, rowing, rugby league, softball, swimming, taekwondo, tenpin, touch football, triathlon, underwater sports, waterpolo and weightlifting.

“The sports are determined through risk assessments each year.

“Queensland has a proud track record of producing international champions who are a credit to their State, their country and their sports.

“Their achievements inspire others, particularly our children and young people, to strive for excellence and lead active, healthy lives. These changes will build on their good work.”

Mr Fraser said the new legislation was one of the Beattie Government’s key election commitments earmarked for introduction within 100 days.

Media Contact: Chris Taylor 3227 8825 or 0419 710 874