‘A fair go’ is a concept that we tend to think of as quite ’Australian’ and is often used to describe Australian culture.  It’s more than just a characteristic of our society though, as it is a key foundation of our political system which influences public health, education and employment policies.

Often referred to as a sporting term, ‘a fair go’ can be traced back to use in the United Kingdom during the Middle Ages when knights were bound by a code of conduct and sense of chivalry.  This included being courageous, having respect for others and defending the innocent and weak.  These principles were carried into development of sports practised in the 19th century. During this time, Pierre de Coubertin (the founder of the modern Olympic movement and Olympic Games) was impressed by the principles of ‘fair play’ in sport that he witnessed during his travels to England and North America.

‘In our view, the Olympic idea is the concept of a strong physical culture based in part on the spirit of chivalry – which you here [in England] so pleasantly call ‘fair play’,’ said de Coubertin while visiting England.

During the development of international sporting events, including the Olympic Games, people looked to athletes for inspiring examples of fair play.  Throughout the history of sport there have been many anecdotes and stories to illustrate these values.

The values of Australian sport are reflected in the core principles of Play by the Rules – safe, fair and inclusive sport.  Play by the Rules was developed as a unique partnership between the Australian Sports Commission, the Australian Human Rights Commission, all anti-discrimination agencies, state and territory departments of sport and recreation and the NSW Commission for Children and Young People.

‘The Australian Sports Commission has been a strong supporter of the Play by the Rules program for many years and recognises its effective role in working to create positive behavioural change around issues related to ethics in sport,’ said Simon Hollingsworth, CEO of the Australian Sports Commission.

To download a range of posters, flyers and postcards that promote safe, fair and inclusive sport, please visit: http://www.playbytherules.net.au/resources/posters-cards.