A disappointed Remi Kamo has accused Netball Australia of being “complicit” after confirmation the investigation into the Queensland Firebirds’ alleged “toxic” culture is now closed.
Kamo had become the first Super Netball player to lodge an official complaint, after accusing the club of gaslighting and other “toxic” behaviour before her exit last July.
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But after a seven-month review, Netball Australia (NA) declared the matter closed given Kamo’s allegations “were not substantiated” in an independent investigation, and no further action will be taken.
“The way this played out is exactly why I made a complaint in the first place,” Kamo posted on social media.
“There is a silencing culture (of women- shock horror) in this sport in Australia where if you have any opinions, diversity, courage – then you are othered – a ‘troublemaker’ while the people benefiting from the silence stay in their positions of power and control the narrative.
“Shame on you Netball Australia for being complicit despite verbally confirming to me that the environment was ‘toxic’.
“Good on you for upholding ‘policies’ that don’t protect your employees or the safety of our sport.”
Kamo was supported by fellow former Firebird Donnell Wallam, who also departed the club at the end of last season.
“So proud to stand in solidarity with Remi Kamo,” she posted online.
“You stood up with strength, courage and resilience some can only dream of. We know the truth and we will heal and move on.
“They know the truth and that’s what they have to live with.”
Already the Australian Netball Players’ Association has hit out at NA for failing to release the investigation’s report – or even a summary of the findings – into the Firebirds matter.
ANPA CEO Kathryn Harby-Williams said she does not consider the matter “closed” until the findings are released.
“ANPA supports the players coming forward to raise safety concerns about their workplace,” she said in a statement.
“Following notification of the outcome of NA’s findings, the players have repeatedly asked NA to provide a copy of the investigation report or alternatively a summary. NA has declined these requests.
“It is difficult for ANPA and the players to accept NA’s determination that there has been no breach of NA’s policies without this further detail.
“From our perspective, the matter is not yet closed and ANPA will continue to work with NA to reach an appropriate resolution for the players.”
NA CEO Stacey West still urged players to follow a ‘Speak Up’ mindset, pledging to support those involved in the game.
“Netball Australia wishes to reiterate, in a broader context, that we expect all participants in our game to be treated fairly, and with care, at all times,” she said.
“We encourage a ‘speak up culture’ and will continue to take necessary steps to examine concerns when they are raised.
“We will also continue to listen, learn, and respond to ensure everyone feels safe at netball.”
The Firebirds endured a tough 2024 which saw assistant coach Sara Francis-Bayman depart in the days leading up to the first game, coach Bec Bulley make a mid-season exit and star shooter Donnell Wallam not offered a new deal, all while narrowly avoiding the wooden spoon.
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