Australian Sports Commission to develop national sport infrastructure plan

With a goal to make sporting facilities across the country “more welcoming, accessible and inclusive”, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has today announced that it is to develop a National Sport Infrastructure Action Plan.

Claimed as “the first time ever” that such a plan has been developed, the Commission introduced the initiative in a statement that advised “Australian sport infrastructure is set to undergo a major transformation following the launch of a nation-first project involving all levels of sport and government.”

Introducing the initiative, ASC Executive General Manager of Sport and Community Capability, Richard McInnes advised “Australia is stepping into a new era of sport infrastructure; one defined by purpose, collaboration and innovation.

“The key driver of Australia’s Sport Participation Strategy: Play Well is that everyone has a place in sport and that starts with making sure our facilities are free from barriers.

“Our ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone can participate in sport and have a great experience wherever they choose to play.”

An Industry Advisory Group made up of sport and government leaders will help contribute to the Plan and provide crucial insights.

Those involved in sport will be invited to take part in a national survey to help shape the future of sport infrastructure. There will also be opportunities for people to attend face-to-face consultations in each State and Territory.

The National Sport Infrastructure Action Plan will be published in late 2025.

Industry Advisory Group members:

• Adam Cassidy, Australian Sports Commission (Intersectionality Expert)

• Ashley Madgwick, Australian Sports Commission (Sporting Schools Expert)

• Matthew Burton, Queensland Government

• Philip Saikaly, Victorian Government

• Adam Cheyne, Sport Environment Alliance

• Paul Cammack, Tennis Australia

• Shayne Ward, Australian Football League

• Adam Bishop, Athletics Australia

• Anand Pillay, Parks and Leisure Australia

• Fiona Baxter, Cricket Australia

• Anthony Trimarchi, National Rugby League

For more information contact ASC Director Participation Growth Sue McGill on email: sue.mcgill@ausport.gov.au