Criminal Code Amendment (National Sport Integrity Offences) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Ryan supported the bill as a necessary step to align domestic laws with the Macolin Convention and provide a consistent national response to match-fixing. Ryan argued that while the legislation protects sporting outcomes, it also benefits the gambling industry, which relies on public confidence in competitions. Ryan called for greater transparency regarding the financial relationships between professional sporting organisations and betting companies, noting that major codes receive significant tax-free income from gambling. Ryan urged the government to pursue a broader agenda on sporting integrity that addresses these commercial dependencies.

Clutterham supported the bill, linking it to recommendations from the 2018 Wood review and Australia's commitment to the Macolin Convention. Clutterham argued that the legislation addresses growing threats from offshore illegal gambling markets, which have doubled since 2019 and are worth $3.9 billion annually. Clutterham emphasised that the new offences have extraterritorial reach, allowing Australia to respond to international threats and collaborate with global partners. Clutterham stated that the penalties reflect the significant harm caused by match-fixing to the sporting sector and public trust.

Farley supported the bill, arguing that it protects the fundamental expectation that sporting contests are genuine and decided by ability rather than corruption. Farley stated that the seven new offences target serious criminal conduct, including the misuse of privileged information, and send a clear message that corrupting sport is not clever gambling but criminal activity. Farley emphasised that the legislation protects honest athletes, coaches, and volunteers from exploitation by organised crime. Farley noted that while strong laws are essential, education and prevention remain critical first lines of defence.

Jarrett argued that the bill addresses sophisticated modern sports corruption, including manipulation of specific game moments and the involvement of international criminal networks. Jarrett stated that the offences are not limited to betting-related corruption, protecting the integrity of competition itself and the unpredictability that makes sport valuable. Jarrett highlighted the importance of these reforms for upcoming major events, including the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane, ensuring international confidence in Australian sporting integrity. Jarrett emphasised that the legislation protects vulnerable athletes from coercion and exploitation.

Neumann supported the bill, noting that sport contributes significantly to the economy and community wellbeing, with over 14 million Australians participating annually. Neumann argued that the legislation responds to the real and growing threat of organised criminal infiltration, as identified in the Wood review. Neumann detailed the seven new offences, which create a graduated hierarchy of culpability for match-fixing and related corruption. Neumann stated that the bill complements recent gambling reforms and ensures Australia aligns with international best practices in protecting sporting integrity.

Jordan-Baird supported the bill, arguing that it protects the fairness and integrity of sport at all levels, from local clubs to professional competitions. Jordan-Baird stated that the seven new offences target the networks involved in match-fixing, including those who organise, encourage, or profit from corruption. Jordan-Baird emphasised that the legislation addresses the international nature of sports corruption and ensures that athletes compete on a level playing field. Jordan-Baird linked the bill to her commitment to supporting local community sport and ensuring that effort and talent determine outcomes.