The Behaviour Management Framework (BMF) reflects the best practice of bodies such as Sport Australia and Play by The Rules, which support a change in sports culture. Basketball SA believes that there is NO excuse or circumstance to act poorly towards others on or off the court.
Basketball SA recognises that an inclusive and positive culture is needed to enable players, coaches, officials, volunteers, and staff to learn to grow in an environment that is free from harassment, bullying, degrading, or intimidating behaviour.
As spectators of our game, you are bound by this framework. The framework is there to ensure that our staff, officials and players have the most enjoyable and safe game experience, every time they step into a venue or onto a court.
Read more about the framework here.
Clear expectations. Safer basketball environments across South Australia.
The Behaviour Management Framework applies to all people in attendance at Basketball SA competitions or tournaments, including coaches, team managers, staff, players, referees, other officials and spectators. It is expected that affiliated members adopt the framework (or similar) for domestic competitions to ensure consistency of expectations within the basketball community.
Basketball SA has introduced a Warning Card system to support positive behaviour across our competitions. Warning Cards provide a clear, consistent way to address inappropriate behaviour at the time it occurs, helping to de-escalate situations and reinforce expectations. The system is designed to promote respect and safety for all participants and is not intended as a disciplinary finding, but as an early intervention and documentation tool where needed.
This Warning Card system will begin as a trial for the 2026 District Championship Season. The trial will also extend into the Basketball SA 2026 State Championships.
The Behaviour Management Framework outlines the expected standards of behaviour at all Basketball SA competitions and tournaments. It applies to everyone involved in the game, including players, coaches, officials, staff and spectators.
In late 2025, the Framework was updated to strengthen the management of spectator behaviour, including the introduction of a Spectator Warning Card. This tool supports early intervention and helps maintain safe, respectful game-day environments.
The Spectator Warning Card will be trialed during the 2026 District Season and at the 2026 State Championships, with the process reviewed at the end of the season.
When behaviour at a Basketball SA competition or tournament does not meet expected standards, authorised staff may take action to manage the situation and protect the game environment.
This may include the use of a Spectator Warning Card, which provides a clear first and final warning to address inappropriate behaviour before further action is taken. If behaviour continues or is considered serious, additional measures may apply.
The Spectator Warning Card is:
When required, individuals or groups may be asked to leave the venue without a Warning Card being issued. This is at the discretion of Basketball SA staff.
If the behaviour continues:
Example of the Spectator Warning Card.
Being issued a warning card is a stern reminder to all spectators for behaviour to improve immediately.
Support the game positively and respectfully. Cheer for players, accept referee decisions, and avoid language or behaviour that could be seen as abusive, aggressive or disruptive.
If you wouldn’t feel comfortable with the behaviour directed at your own child, family member or teammate, it’s best not to say it. Everyone plays a role in creating a safe and enjoyable game-day environment.
Coaches are recognised as leaders of the team environment. Linking spectator behaviour to the team allows issues to be addressed quickly and consistently, helping prevent escalation and minimise disruption to the game.
This approach supports referees and staff in managing behaviour in real time and reflects existing bench technical principles already used within basketball.
Where appropriate, behaviour concerns may first be addressed through a Spectator Warning Card, which serves as a clear reminder for behaviour to improve, unless alternative management of the behaviour is required.
Want to do extra research? A number of resources have been collected to support Basketball SA members in upholding the standards and values of the Behaviour Management framework. Click on the Play By the Rules resources below.
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Phone: (08) 7088 0070
Postal Address: PO Box 2080 Hilton Plaza, SA, 5033
