Equestrian Australia's Response to a Horse Welfare Matter

Equestrian Australia (EA) is committed to the highest standards of welfare for horses and the safety of all participants in our sport. We write to update our members on the consequences that now apply, under EA’s rules, following the conviction of a former member for a serious horse welfare offence.

Following criminal proceedings in the Magistrates Court of South Australia, a former EA member – who was a member at the time of the relevant offending - was convicted in March 2026 for breaching the Animal Welfare Act. Upon first becoming aware of the conduct back in 2024, EA immediately referred this matter to the RSPCASA for investigation and took provisional action against the member, suspending his membership and all associated rights. While the criminal proceedings were being conducted, EA suspended its Integrity process in line with the Complaints, Disputes and Discipline Policy until the outcome was known.

Following the conviction, EA resumed its integrity process. The former member was notified of the action proposed and of the opportunity to seek a review, and he did not do so by the notified deadline. The following consequences accordingly now apply under EA’s rules:

• A 15-year ineligibility from EA membership and the rights, privileges, accreditations and benefits associated with EA membership, with the final 5 years conditionally suspended on good behaviour
• Exclusion from all EA-sanctioned activities and events, which includes exclusion from participating, attending in any participatory capacity, or holding any role with respect to any EA-sanctioned activity
• Notification to all State and Territory Member Organisations to ensure the sanctions are upheld across the sport

The welfare of horses is a foundational principle of equestrian sport. Conduct of the kind for which the former member was convicted is incompatible with membership of EA and will not be tolerated, regardless of the circumstances.

EA remains committed to the safe and respectful environment for all athletes, carers, officials, and horses within our community. We encourage any member who witnesses conduct of concern to report it through our Integrity Complaint Form here.

To understand more about the Integrity process and relevant policies please visit our Integrity page on our website here.