Sex Offender Timing Matches at White Hills Junior Football Club Raises Safety Concerns

The White Hills Junior Football Club in Bendigo, Victoria, has come under fire after allowing a father with a history of sex offences to serve as a timekeeper during his son’s match on July 20 this year.

The individual involved, Sonny Middleton, a former player at the club, was sentenced to six months in prison in 2024 for indecent assault against an 18-year-old woman. When interviewed by ABC, Middleton was unable to confirm whether he held a valid Working with Children Check—a certificate required for all volunteers in Victoria working with children.

Several parents expressed concern after witnessing the situation. In a joint statement with the Australian Football League (AFL), the White Hills club said it is investigating the incident. They emphasized that the father was only filling in temporarily due to the absence of a regular timekeeper and had no direct interaction with players. The club reaffirmed its commitment to child safety.

Sport Integrity Australia noted that volunteer clubs have a legal responsibility to ensure their volunteers hold a valid Working with Children Check, in compliance with Victoria’s child safety standards.