Support Tasmanian Rugby in 2025 by becoming a Judicial or Code of Conduct Panel Member.
The TRU is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified individuals with backgrounds in sports law, the sport industry (such as players/athletes, coaches, referees or administrators) or investigations, for the following:
Judicial Panel – Legal and Ordinary Members
Code of Conduct Panel – Legal and Ordinary Members
Judicial Panel Members and Code of Conduct Panel Members play a vital role in ensuring Rugby in Australia is safe, fair and inclusive and is recognised for its high standards of integrity, on and off the field.
Judicial Panel Members are appointed to Judicial Committees and Appeal Committees on an as needs basis to independently hear, determine and impose sanctions for instances of Foul Play following a Red Card or Citing, in accordance with the principles and procedures set out in Rugby Australia’s Disciplinary Rules (Rules), World Rugby Regulation 17 and the Laws of the Game.
Code of Conduct Panel Members are appointed to Code of Conduct Committees and Appeal Committees on an as needs basis to independently hear, determine and impose sanctions for mainly off-field matters arising under Rugby Australia’s Code of Conduct (Code)Child Safeguarding Policy, Social Media Policy and other relevant integrity policies, in accordance with the principles and procedures set out in the Code.
In addition, Panel Members may be approached to conduct or provide assistance with investigations conducted under the Code.
Most hearings are held on a weeknight (typically a Wednesday) outside of normal office hours, possibly online.
Key Accountabilities
- Ensuring that all matters arising out of on and off-field issues are dealt with fairly, impartially and consistently in accordance with the Laws of the Game and the Rules, Codes, Policies and Regulations of Rugby Australia and World Rugby (as applicable)
- Dealing with matters before the Committee in a timely, confidential and professional manner
- Ensuring the Committee’s approach and procedures are accessible and responsive to the needs of young and vulnerable persons where appropriate
- Writing full, clear and reasoned decisions in line with the requirements of the relevant Rules or Code, and within the timeframes set by Rugby Australia
- Upholding and promoting Rugby Australia’s Core Values of Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, Passion and Discipline
- Attending training and education opportunities as offered by Rugby Australia and the relevant State or Territory’s Member Union
Capabilities, Experience & Qualification Requirements
Capabilities
- A thorough understanding of the Laws of the Game and Rugby Australia’s Rules, Codes and Policies
- An understanding of, and commitment to, the principles of natural justice and Rugby Australia’s Core Values
- Ability to think logically, analyse and interpret information and evidence in a fair and impartial manner in order to make objective and reasoned decisions
- Ability to work collaboratively and strive to achieve consensus with fellow Committee Members (while still exercising independence of judgement) and listen carefully to, and show respect for, others’ views and opinions
- Ability to engage positively, professionally and respectfully with Complainants, Respondents, witnesses and all other hearing participants
- Ability to organise time to sufficiently allow for pre-reading and preparation, hearing attendance, deliberation and decision-writing as appropriate
- Ability to work in a confidential setting including refraining from commenting on specific disciplinary cases both in private and public
- Ability to identify and raise real and potential conflicts of interest where appropriate and in a timely manner
- Flexible availability, including on weekends and evenings, and available for travel when required
For Legal Members:
- Conduct and/or chair hearings efficiently, fairly and professionally
- Lend expertise by providing leadership and guidance to Ordinary Members on legal and procedural matters
Experience and Qualification Requirements
Legal Members:
- A current or retired legal practitioner of at least three (3) years standing, a serving or retired judge, or qualified arbitrator
- Demonstrated Rugby experience or knowledge (as a player/coach/official/administrator would be an advantage but is not essential)
- Demonstrated legal experience in the conduct of disciplinary proceedings in the first instance and/or on appeal (preferably, in sport)
- Previous experience chairing or sitting on disciplinary panels/committees/tribunals (preferably, in sport)
Ordinary Members:
- Extensive experience in Rugby (as a player/coach/official/administrator)
- Experience in sitting on disciplinary panels/committees/tribunal, complaint management or investigations (preferred)
- Experience in child and young person safeguarding and best practices (preferred).
- No legal experience required
To express your interest, please email your cover letter and CV (stating the role/s you are interested in) to Katharine O’Donnell, Secretary, Tasmanian Rugby at Katharine.odonnell@tas.rugby.
Queries can be made to Katharine via email (katharine.odonnell) or mobile (0448311588) or to the Tasmanian Judiciary Chair - Alexander McKenzie - via email at alexanderm@mmtlaw.com.au
Applications close on Monday 17 March 2025. Applications are particularly welcomed from females with experience in rugby and from indigenous or Pasifika people with experience in rugby.
Job title: Judicial Panel Members and Code of Conduct Panel Members
Location: Anywhere (Remote)
Work type: Volunteer by appointment
