ARU releases new disciplinary protocol

The Australian Rugby Union has announced changes to its disciplinary procedures ahead of the Wallabies Spring tour to Europe.

The changes follow a review conducted by ARU General Manager of High Performance Dr Peter Davis in conjunction with the Wallaby's senior management team headed by coach Eddie Jones and Manager Phil Thomson.

While all contracted players and ARU employees are subject to the ARU's Code of Conduct, the new Wallaby Disciplinary Protocol applies to all players in the Australian Rugby Squad announced at the start of each calendar year and any additional players brought into the Wallaby squad at any time.

The Protocol has also been agreed upon by Australia's Super 14 Unions as a minimum standard for Australia's four Tooheys New Super 14 sides.

The key features of the new Protocol are:

1. Greater definition around minor and major disciplinary matters
2. An independent body to deal with major disciplinary matters
3. Penalties to reflect the difference between a minor or major matter.

ARU Managing Director Gary Flowers says the Wallabies have traditionally set the highest standards as representatives of their country and their code.

"Ultimately being a Wallaby is an honour that carries obligations and a great duty. Wallaby tradition, ongoing education and a dedication to a positive team culture should ensure all our players are able to meet those obligations."

"We have an ongoing program that is looking at these elements, but after a number of incidents in recent times we have moved to strengthen our disciplinary protocol. We intend to maintain the highest standards."

Minor Matters - Wallaby Team Disciplinary Committee

Minor matters which include lateness to training or team activity, absence from a scheduled activity, failure to wear designated clothing etc. will be dealt with by the Wallaby Team Disciplinary Committee.

This committee consists of: Wallaby Team Manager, Wallaby Staff Member and two Wallaby players.

Penalties: Official warning, extra team duty or responsibility or a fine (maximum equal to 28 days of player's annual remuneration.)

Serious Matters - ARU Teams Disciplinary Committee

Serious matters include inappropriate public behaviour (including public drunkenness or physical abuse), any illegal activity, sexual misconduct or attending team activity under influence of any substance likely to significantly impair performance or behaviour.

The ARU Teams Disciplinary Committee consists of: Independent Senior Legal Practitioner, ARU General Manager HPU and Wallaby Team Manager.

Penalties: Fine (maximum equal to 28 days annual remuneration), suspension (maximum one month), termination of contract.

Other Points

Examples provided of both Minor and Serious matters are not exhaustive. For Serious matters, players have the right to legal and /or RUPA representation.

The Independent Legal practitioner will be appointed by the ARU Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.

The ARU Teams Disciplinary Committee will be entitled to receive evidence in such form that it sees fit.

Players will have the right to appeal decisions.

Repeat offenders under the Minor matters provisions may be referred to the ARU Teams Disciplinary Committee.