AUSactive establishes Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Group

AUSactive has established its third Advisory Group – the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Advisory Group (ADEIAG) - reinforcing its strategic commitment to developing a more inclusive, accessible, and representative active health and exercise industry across Australia.

The announcement of the new Advisory Group follows the successful launch of the AUSactive Modalities Advisory Group (AMAG) in late 2024 and the Supplier Advisory Group (ASAG) earlier this year. Together, these groups form a vital triad of consultation and collaboration that will shape the future of Australia’s active health sector.

AUSactive Chief Executive Barrie Elvish said the formation of ADEIAG is the culmination of extensive planning and groundwork to ensure the Advisory Groups operate effectively and provide strong sector representation.

Elvish notes “we have done a lot of preparation work prior to implementing each Advisory Group.

“Each Advisory Group has Terms of Reference as well as its own systems and processes for function, board review, reporting and more. The structure provides focused support and representation, ensuring a diversity of expertise and perspectives across the entire sector.”

“The ADEIAG in particular will play an important role in our strategic commitment to greater diversity, equity and inclusion.

“This group will be instrumental in shaping how we embed inclusive practices in the Australian active health and exercise industry and ensure every Australian can see themselves reflected and welcomed in our industry.”

The newly appointed members of the ADEIAG bring a wide range of experience, professional expertise, and passionate advocacy for inclusive wellbeing.

AUSactive Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Group Members:

• Tim Firth – Chair of the ADEIAG and AUSactive Board Member

• Deborah Goldberg – Co-founder of Fuel Summit, and a long-standing contributor to the group fitness sector, notably launching Zumba Fitness in Australia in 2018.

• Victoria Goodwin Barlow – Group Health and Well-being Manager at Belgravia Leisure, with a strong focus on equitable access to wellness programs across over 200 venues in Australia and New Zealand.

• Rachel Engelhardt – A leader in health and inclusion at Melbourne City Baths and active volunteer with Life Saving Victoria, focused on building capability across emergency services and aquatic industries.

• Anne Drury – A science and research professional turned early-career fitness coach, with hands-on experience delivering inclusive programs across a variety of community and population groups.

• Emmanuel Madziva – Founder of inclusive initiative Fitness For All and co-founder of ProActive Fitness in Perth, specialising in multicultural and disability community engagement through fitness.

Chair of the ADEIAG Tim Firth said he was excited to work with a talented and diverse team to drive meaningful change and advised “as the inaugural Chair of the ADEIAG, I’m honoured to lead a group of passionate and experienced professionals dedicated to making Australia’s active health and exercise industry more inclusive and equitable.

“Our work will focus on embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into every facet of AUSactive’s operations, ensuring all Australians feel welcomed and empowered to participate in fitness and wellbeing.

“The formation of the ADEIAG marks a pivotal step in AUSactive’s commitment to fostering a truly inclusive industry. By developing practical resources, policies, and partnerships, we aim to break down barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented communities to thrive in fitness and health spaces.”

Firth said the ADEIAG plans to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan, launch a DEI Resource Hub, and create NDIS best practice guides, ensuring AUSactive members are equipped to foster inclusive fitness environments by mid-2025. 

Firth added “our initial focus on Reconciliation Action Plans and NDIS best practice guides will set a strong foundation for creating accessible, inclusive active health and exercise fitness environments that reflect the diversity of our communities.

“The group will also remain responsive to the evolving needs of the industry, adapting its initiatives to address emerging challenges and opportunities in diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

The ADEIAG will work in tandem with AUSactive’s broader strategy to ensure voices from across all walks of life are heard and supported, particularly those from systemically underrepresented or disadvantaged communities.

The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Advisory Group is now officially underway and will begin contributing to AUSactive’s 2025 initiatives and beyond.

For more information about the AUSactive Advisory Groups visit ausactive.org.au

Image. Credit: Belgravia Leisure