What does a Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO) do?

An MPIO listens to issues and concerns raised by members of their sport, then refers them appropriately to seek an outcome or resolution. Play by the Rules says the MPIO is responsible for providing information about a person's or group's rights, responsibilities and the options available to make a complaint or raise a concern.

According to Play by the Rules' MPIO factsheet, an MPIO can:

• listen
• act as an impartial support person
• provide information about discrimination, harassment and child abuse
• provide information about the Member Protection Policy and the options to resolve a complaint
• provide information about relevant laws and the right to complain externally
• discuss strategies the person can use to deal directly with the other person
• provide contact details for counselling or other referrals, as appropriate or requested.

MPIOs can be based in a club, an association, a state sporting organisation, a national sporting organisation, or a national sporting organisation for people with disability. They do not handle complaints, investigate grievances or mediate between members. Play by the Rules is a partnership of Sport Integrity Australia, other national agencies and state and territory sport and recreation departments.

Sources: Play by the Rules, What is an MPIO? (22 October 2026) and the What is an MPIO? factsheet (2025).