GOLDOC is taking part in an Australian-first benchmarking programme designed to measure the inclusion of LGBTI people within sport in the country ©Gold Coast 2018

The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) is taking part in an Australian-first "benchmarking programme" designed to measure the inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people within sport in the country.

The Pride in Sport Index (PSI) is an initiative of the Australian Human Rights Commission and the Australian Sports Commission, and is a legacy of the Bingham Cup, a biennial international, non-professional, gay rugby union tournament, first held in 2002. 

It allows Australian sporting organisations to determine what constitutes good practice and benchmark their own initiatives against an external measure and other sporting bodies.

GOLDOC chairman Peter Beattie said the Corporation's participation is in line with its vision to stage an event that welcomes participation by people of every gender, socio-economic status, race, orientation or ability.

"GOLDOC - the first Commonwealth Games organising body to participate - is committed to delivering a sustainable event that leaves a positive legacy for the local community and the people and societies that it reaches," he added.

"Our focus on inclusion covers our workforce, volunteers, athletes and spectators.

"Being part of the Pride in Sport Index supports our zero tolerance approach to homophobia, bullying and harassment.

"It also sends a clear message about our expectations around appropriate behaviour.

"We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy the Games in a truly inclusive environment."

GOLDOC chairman Peter Beattie said the Corporation’s participation is in line with its vision to stage an event that welcomes participation by people of every gender, socio-economic status, race, orientation or ability ©Getty Images
GOLDOC chairman Peter Beattie said the Corporation’s participation is in line with its vision to stage an event that welcomes participation by people of every gender, socio-economic status, race, orientation or ability ©Getty Images

Pride in Sport senior programme manager Ross Wetherbee welcomed GOLDOC's participation.

"There's much work left to do to ensure that all LGBTI people feel safe and able to participate in sport," he said.

"GOLDOC joins a number of high profile national and State sporting organisations in participating in the first-ever Pride in Sport Index.

"The leadership of GOLDOC sends a strong message of support to the LGBTI community."

GOLDOC chief executive Mark Peters said inclusiveness is the foundation of his organisation’s operations.

"From policy development to delivery, extensive planning will continue to allow us to eliminate barriers - physical or otherwise," he added.

"Our aim is to provide a safe, independent and dignified experience for everyone."

Prior to the 2014 Commonwealth Games, Glasgow City councillors agreed to allow the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rainbow flag to be flown at City Chambers. 

A Pride House, located in Albion Street in Glasgow's Merchant City, was opened for the duration of the Games. 

The House, led by LEAP Sports Scotland, welcomed LGBT athletes, fans and visitors, and provided a place to view the competitions and enjoy the events and cultural programmes planned around the competition.