Letter sent to Minister for Sport Duigan from a concerned mother on 30.03.26
Dear Minister Duigan,
I am writing to you as a concerned mother regarding the new Northern sports hub.
For years now my two eight-year-old daughters attended gymnastics classes at the PCYC facility, and while we are grateful for the investment in community sport and recreation and the opportunity they have been given to move to a new, upgraded facility I feel compelled to raise my concerns regarding the implementation of all-gender change rooms and toilets.
As a woman and a parent, my primary concern is the safety, privacy, and comfort of my daughters.
The absence of clearly designated women-only spaces for changing has created an environment where young girls are expected to undress and prepare for activities and use the bathroom facilities during their lessons in shared spaces with individuals of all genders. This situation is not only uncomfortable for them but also raises legitimate concerns about safeguarding and appropriate boundaries.
At their age, my daughters are becoming increasingly aware of personal privacy, and it is important that facilities reflect and support that developmental need. Many parents, including myself, believe that single-sex changing areas and bathroom facilities are a basic and reasonable provision, particularly in facilities frequented by children.
While I understand the intention to create inclusive environments, I strongly believe this should not come at the expense of the safety and dignity of women and young girls. There must be a balanced approach that accommodates inclusivity while also preserving spaces where females can feel secure and protected.
I urge you to reconsider the current design and policies in place at the Northern Sports Hub. Specifically, I would ask that the facility include clearly designated women-only change rooms and toilets, alongside any inclusive options, so that families have a choice that best suits their comfort and safety needs.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my concerns. I hope that steps can be taken to ensure that all members of our community, especially children, can participate in sport in a safe and supportive environment.
Yours sincerely,
Reply from the Minister for Sport Nick Duigan on 22.04.26
