Stronger Protections for Members: Integrity Policy Updates

We have received feedback that informed us that the process for raising a concern was unclear and difficult to navigate. We have used this feedback as the foundation of what we are sharing today.

What Has Changed

Two key changes came into effect on 1 March 2026:

1. An updated Complaints, Disputes and Discipline Policy and the Code of Conduct

The updates set clearer behavioural standards across all levels of the sport and establish a more defined, step-by-step process for assessing and resolving concerns. 

2. A new Making a Complaint Guide

The feedback received, informed us that members did not know how to raise a concern, what would happen when they did, or whether anything would come of it. The guide specifically addresses that.

What This Means for You

Regardless of whether you are a competitor, official, coach, volunteer or parent, these changes affect how you can raise a concern and what protections apply to you. 

How - You now have a clear guide that explains exactly how to raise a concern, from what is considered a complaint/report, to how to submit it through the EA Integrity Hotline.

What to expect - The guide outlines the process: how your complaint/report is assessed, what the investigation involves, and how decisions are made fairly and consistently.

Have support - You have the right to have a support person present at any stage of the process.

Why the Updates

Members told us that previously raising a complaint/report was confusing and that some felt discouraged from raising concerns at all. 

The changes we have made are designed to address concerns that were raised with us:

• Clearer process — you no longer have to guess what happens after you raise a concern
• Defined rights — your protections are now written down and enforceable, not implied
• Easier access — a dedicated platform and step-by-step guide reduce the barriers to coming forward 
• Consistent outcomes — decisions are guided by a structured evaluation framework, reducing the risk of matters being handled differently depending on who is involved

We also acknowledge that updated policies alone do not change culture. We are committed to reviewing how these processes work in practice and continuing to listen to members as we do. If you experience something that does not match what is outlined here, we want to hear about it.

Responsibilities

A safe and respectful equestrian sport is everyone's responsibility. 

As a member, EA asks that you:

• Prioritise the welfare of the horse in all decisions and actions
• Treat fellow participants, officials, volunteers and staff with respect
• Act honestly and ethically in all sport-related dealings
• Respect the authority of officials and the integrity of competition
• Use social media appropriately — 
• Report conduct that may breach EA policies — silence does not protect the sport

What Comes Next

These updates are a step forward for Equestrian Australia, which will continue to monitor their effectiveness and efficiency. Should additional feedback require further amendments, Equestrian Australia will work with relevant stakeholders to achieve this. 

Access the Updated Resources

The updated Policy and the Guide are available on the Equestrian Australia website HERE.

For questions about integrity processes, contact:

[email protected]