The AFL has named the independent four-person panel which will be tasked with fully investigating racism allegations levelled against Hawthorn.
Bernard Quinn KC will head the panel and be joined experienced barristers Jacqualyn Turfrey, Julie Buxton and Tim Goodwin.
In a lengthy statement, the AFL said they were hoping to finalise the investigation by December, with the report and recommendations to be made public.
AFL General Counsel Andrew Dillon said it was vital that the panel worked independently of the AFL and included people with diverse backgrounds.
“These are very serious allegations, and it is important that we have an independent panel that is able to hear the perspectives of all involved and to provide natural justice to those making the claims and those who have had claims made against them,” he said in the AFL statement.
“It is also vitally important that the panel is able to complete its work independently of the AFL.
“Bernard Quinn KC, the chair of the independent investigation and panel members Jacqualyn Turfrey, Julie Buxton and Tim Goodwin are all eminently qualified barristers that will be able to provide their intellect and significant expertise to the process.
“The four-person panel, with their diverse backgrounds including in respect of Ms Turfrey and Mr Goodwin as First Nations persons will also have the ability to bring in additional outside expertise, whether that be in cultural safety, football administration or any other area the panel believes extra resource is needed.”
Brisbane coach Chris Fagan remains on a period of leave from the club after being named in the ABC report, while incoming North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson’s start date at his new club has also been delayed.