An independent review that looked into cycling in Australia has urged to its governing body to implement stricter anti-doping testings in the wake of scandals that marred the sector in 2012, also relatively linked to those of U.S. cyclist rider Lance Armstrong.

The review, made by former NSW Judge James Wood, likewise called for the creation of an ethics panel within Cycling Australia. The 100-page document was released on Monday morning and has been delivered to Kate Lundy, Australia's federal sports minister, as well as to Cycling Australia.

Ms Lundy promised to take swift action into the 16 recommendations proposed in the review.

"We do need to act swiftly," she said, adding the government would come out with its reply to the report "only within weeks and not months."

"I think there are a lot of eyes on it," Ms Lundy said.

Among the 16 "wide-ranging" recommendations include:

  • Upgrading Cycling Australia's governance and commercial structure
  • Integrating national cycling bodies
  • Establishment of an Integrity Unit
  • Establishment of an Ethics and Integrity Panel
  • Strengthening and extending the anti-doping system including the reach of testing and developing stronger sanction regimes.
  • Strengthening the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Agency (ASADA)

Ms Lundy commissioned the report after CA's men's road coach Matt White and Vice President Stephen Hodge admitted in 2012 to doping-related incidents during their racing careers. Mr White was axed from his post, while Mr Hodge resigned.

The report further added that Cycling Australia's governance arrangements "need to be updated, including the introduction of a new declaration policy."

"An important driver for this review was the fact that former athletes had been appointed to certain roles in the sport, without consideration of whether or not they had been involved in doping activity," the report said.

John Coates, president of the Australian Olympics Committee (AOC), specially lauded the proposal to extend ASADA's powers.

"I am particularly pleased there is finally a recommendation to extend ASADA's powers to investigate doping practices to compel persons to attend interviews and provide documents," Mr Coates said in a statement.

"The AOC supports the recommendations, especially the zero tolerance approach to doping and more anti-doping education, not just in cycling but all sports."