Public Funding of UFC Event

Public Funding of UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) Event in Sydney

By Dr Bibiana Chan

A letter to Hon. MP Tim James

I am writing to express my deep concern and dismay regarding the NSW Government’s decision to financially support the recent UFC championship held in Sydney. After watching the Four Corners investigation (Fighting for Survival in the UFC) aired on ABC, I was appalled by the exploitative practices targeting UFC fighters, as well as the overtly misogynistic and violent culture that is being marketed—particularly to young men.

It is especially troubling to see how taxpayer funds, drawn from hard-working citizens like myself, are being used to legitimise and promote an industry that profits from physical harm and hyper-aggressive, anti-social behaviour. The documented cases of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and long-term psychological trauma among fighters are deeply disturbing. Equally alarming is the influence such events have on impressionable audiences—normalising violence, glorifying toxic masculinity, and promoting sexist attitudes.

I find it deeply ironic, if not contradictory, that while the NSW Government allocates substantial funding toward domestic violence prevention and support services for survivors, it simultaneously subsidises events like UFC that propagate attitudes and behaviours widely recognised as contributors to gender-based violence. This sends conflicting messages to the public and undermines community efforts to promote respectful relationships and mental wellbeing.

As a mental health advocate and someone actively engaged in youth wellbeing initiatives through the Community Flower Studio, I see how young people, especially young men, are shaped by the messages they receive in popular culture. Our efforts to encourage emotional intelligence, non-violent expression, and gender equality are severely undercut when aggressive, demeaning content is given a government-backed platform.

I respectfully ask:

• What due diligence was undertaken in approving this funding?
• How does the Government reconcile this decision with its public commitment to reducing violence, particularly against women and children?
• Will your office commit to raising these concerns in Parliament or reviewing the criteria for funding events of this nature?

I believe NSW can and should be a leader in promoting sport and entertainment that reflects values of respect, equity, and wellbeing—not violence and exploitation. I would appreciate a response addressing my concerns, and I am available to meet or speak further on this matter if needed.

Thank you for your attention.

Yours sincerely,

Bibiana 

Dr Bibiana Chan

President an Founder,

Community Flower studio.

Notes: As we express concerns about the growing popularity of UFC among young people, it’s crucial to address the broader issue of domestic violence. In New South Wales, coercive control—a pattern of abusive behaviours aimed at dominating a partner—has been criminalised as of 1 July 2024, under the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022 . This landmark law recognises that abuse isn’t always physical and aims to protect individuals from psychological and emotional harm.wmdlaw.com.au+5mcauleylawyers.com.au+5barnews.nswbar.asn.au+5

Additionally, NSW has implemented affirmative consent laws, requiring clear, voluntary, and ongoing agreement to engage in sexual activity . These reforms aim to foster a culture of respect and understanding around personal boundaries.baybridge.com.au

Highlighting the pervasive nature of domestic violence, a female UFC fighter recently shared her personal experience with abuse, underscoring that even those trained in self-defense are not immune. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of education, prevention, and cultural change, especially among young men who may misconstrue aggression as strength.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, support is available: nsw.gov.au

• NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463 – 24/7 counselling and referrals for women in NSW .innerwest.nsw.gov.au+1dcj.nsw.gov.au+1
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 – National 24/7 support for anyone affected by domestic, family, or sexual violence .innerwest.nsw.gov.au
• 13YARN: 13 92 76 – A culturally safe crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people .nsw.gov.au

Together, by acknowledging these issues and supporting affected individuals, we can work towards a safer and more equitable society.