Sport and Recreation Minister James Merlino, the MP for Monbulk, said the new code of conduct was "a loud and clear message that bad behaviour, violence and intimidation has no place in community sport".

The State Government developed the code, effective from July 1, in consultation with peak sporting bodies including AFL Victoria, Football Federation Victoria and Basketball Victoria.

Mr Merlino said any sporting association refusing to adopt the code would put future Government funding at risk.

The code of conduct prohibits violent or abusive behaviour, harassment, vilification, discrimination and failure to provide a safe playing environment.

Sports bodies in the Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs have welcomed the code, despite already having stringent set rules in place for parents and spectators.

Eastern Football League boss Rob Sharpe said the code was more about education than punishment.

"We already have a successful code, with clubs and members well aware of their responsibilities and how to behave."

The EFL has adopted a number of methods to promote positive support of junior sport, including runners' match-day uniforms emblazoned with the slogan 'Encourage the kids, support the game'.

"These are just subtle things, but we feel they work," Sharpe said. "This is sport, it's not life and death. It's about children having fun and keeping active."

Lilydale Junior Football Club president Graeme Donald said "ugly parent syndrome" was a blight on junior sport.

"For a parent or spectator to abuse a young kid is pretty gutless," he said. "Parents should be there for their kids to enjoy sport."