‘Silencing culture’: Former Firebirds Remi Kamo, Donnell Wallam call out Netball Australia

Former Firebirds Remi Kamo and Donnell Wallam have taken to social media to call out Netball Australia and its ‘silencing culture,’ with Kamo confirming she was the one who triggered the investigation.

Former Queensland Firebird Remi Kamo has taken to social media accusing Netball Australia of being complicit in a culture of silencing complaints, furious the sport dismissed her claims about the ‘toxic’ culture at the Super netball club last year.

Kamo publicly confirmed she was the player that made complaints that triggered an investigation into the Firebirds late last season and now those review findings have cleared the Firebirds she has unleashed at the governing body’s handling of the matter.

The Australian Netball Players Association on Tuesday confirmed “from our perspective the matter is not yet closed” and Kamo’s scathing comments on social media suggest she is furious at the result after private conversations with Netball Australia.

Remi Kamo (L), Donnel Wallam have each called out Netball Queensland.

“The way this played out is exactly why I made a complaint in the first place,” Remo wrote on Instagram.

“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 the ‘policies’ that don’t protect your employees or the safety of our sport.”

Remi Kamo calls out NQ. Picture: IG/remikamo

Donnell Wallam stands with Remi Kamo. Picture: IG/donnell.wallam

Kamo and Donnell Wallam both departed the Firebirds at the end of last season.

Wallam, who now plays in the New Zealand league, posted on her Instagram stories her support for Kamo.

“So proud to stand in solidarity with @remikamo 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.”

Netball Australia, when asked for a response to Kamo’s comments, reiterated CEO Stacey West’s statement announcing the decision on Tuesday.

“In August 2024 Netball Australia appointed an independent investigator to investigate complaints that alleged breaches of the Netball Australia Code of Conduct and Member Protection Policy by Netball Queensland and members of its staff,” said West.

Netball Australia CEO Stacey West. Picture: Netball Australia

“This investigation has been completed, with the independent investigator finding that, based on the evidence considered, the allegations were not substantiated in relation to specific breaches of these codes and policies.

“For these reasons, no further action will be taken with respect to the allegations made.

“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. 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.

To show further commitment to these principles, NA will:

· Continue to deliver ongoing education around bullying, harassment and cultural and psychological safety across all SSN Clubs; and

· Work with the Australian Netball Players Association and the Clubs to improve awareness around our policies, how to lodge a concern, and the process by which concerns are considered.”

Originally published as ‘Silencing culture’: Former Firebirds Remi Kamo, Donnell Wallam call out Netball Australia