Criminal gangs are entering the fitness industry, sparking calls for government intervention.
Gold Coast-based fitness operator Jenny Singh said there needed to be a national licensing scheme for operators to stamp out crime and lift professionalism of industry.
“My concern is that criminals and gangs are now infiltrating the fitness industry and using gyms as a front for money laundering and other activities,” Ms Singh said.
“The majority of the industry is professional and introducing a law to ensure that all gyms and fitness centres are run by licensed operators will help lift the industry to a higher level of professionalism and accountability.”
She said the Federal Government needed to set up a Senate inquiry and develop laws to implement higher levels of credentials.
“You go to the doctor when you’re unwell. You go to the gym to improve your health. We need higher levels of operator credibility.”
Todd Howard, CEO of TBH Group, a key multi-site franchisee with Snap Fitness in Australia, said the fitness sector was growing at the fastest rate he had seen in 15 years.
Mr Howard said since COVID, health and wellness had become a priority for many Australians.
“It’s now the norm to have a gym membership,” he said.
“But the flip side is that the industry is attracting a wide range of entrants, including some with little experience or structure.”
Mr Howard said that while franchised gyms like Snap Fitness had robust screening, training, compliance and vetting processes for owners, the broader industry lacked safeguards.
“Licensing would support higher levels of professionalism and consumer trust.
“People should be able to walk into any gym knowing it meets a national standard, just like they can with childcare, aged care or allied health.”
