A third woman has hired legal representation over an alleged incident involving multiple Sydney Swans players.
Legal firm Slater and Gordon says it has been engaged as a representative of a woman involved in the sexual assault allegations against Sydney Swans players.
The firm says the client is the woman who called the police after the alleged incident at a hotel room in Melbourne’s Pullman Hotel.
She is the third woman to seek legal help over the allegations, which allege a woman was sexually assaulted during an incident in a hotel room with multiple Sydney Swans players present.
Senior Lawyer Jackson Pannam, who said his client has had her “entire world turned upside down”, has been instructed to investigate a potential civil claim.
Carbone Lawyers, who represent two other women involved in the alleged incident, said they also are exploring options for legal action against the players and club.
“Our client has had her entire world turned upside down and is now trying to navigate an incredibly traumatic experience,” he said.
“At Slater and Gordon, we see the profound and long-lasting impact that serious injury, loss and abuse can have on people’s lives.”
“Everyone deserves to be safe going about their life, at home, at work, and in public spaces without risk of being assaulted or harmed,” Mr Pannam said.
“We’re standing with our client to give her support at this difficult time, and to help her get the justice she deserves.”
Players Isaac Heeney, Riley Bice, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Chad Warner have all been linked to Victoria Police investigations over the sexual assault allegations made by the women.
All five players have been stood down by the Sydney Swans for the rest of the season over a breach of club standards.
The group of five players released an apology after the claims, saying they “are deeply sorry to everyone involved”.
“We know that our behaviour has fallen well short of the standards expected of us and the values of our Club,” they said.
“We know we have let down our partners and families, members, supporters, teammates, the AFLW team, corporate partners and everyone at the club and the wider community.
“Our focus will now be on rebuilding trust with the club and the community.”
Police have not laid any charges against any of the men involved in the allegations, but investigations remain ongoing by the Victoria Police Sexual Crimes Squad, with officers flying to Sydney to interview players.
Carbone Lawyers alleged that there were more players present in the hotel room, including “leaders”, but the Sydney Swans have since released a statement denying these claims.
News24.com.au is not suggesting any wrongdoing by the players or that they are under investigation.
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