Feature article: Regulating sport-related concussion: Taking steps towards a public-private partnership In May 2016, the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and Australian Medical acting within its regulatory remit to reduce Association (AMA) published the or minimise harm to the Australian sports first ‘Concussion in Sport Position community. Statement’ designed to provide access to information for coaches, parents But sport is a unique domain and and athletes alike and to enhance governments typically adopt a hands-off consistency in terms of best practice approach when it comes to regulating medical care. sport. It is necessary, therefore, to take a pragmatic approach towards standard The latest version, published in setting and behaviour modification in February 2019, has the support of respect of SRC. One way to achieve this many key stakeholders and is endorsed is to develop a public–private partnership by many Australian sports. The between government (as guardian of the development of the position statement public’s health) and key stakeholders in the and the enhanced website www. Australian sports ecosystem, including the concussioninsport.gov.au are positive sport’s governing body, as guardian of the steps towards filling knowledge gaps sport. around the medical management of sport-related concussion (SRC). The AIS and AMA initiatives are positive and important steps, but there is still some A dedicated team, drawn way to go before Australia adopts a truly predominantly from the medical and harmonised and nationally consistent scientific fields, has taken great stridesapproach to SRC. In the September 2017 towards the provision of information issue of the Play by the Rules magazine, around this important public health a call was made for a collective and concern. But more can be done. nationally coordinated response between governments, sports and stakeholders to The investment by the Australian address SRC. While medical management Government in funding these of SRC is a critical part of reducing or initiatives is an acknowledgement of minimising the harm associated with SRC, its guardianship of the public’s health, other perspectives are also valuable. 10Play by the Rules Magazine Issue 29