Labor charts new direction for Australian sport

The Federal Government has laid out its vision for Australian sport, with the release of a new directions paper and the appointment of five new members to the Australian Sports Commission (ASC).

Minister for Sport, Kate Ellis, said it was clear we need new directions to meet the emerging challenges in sport and to maintain our status as one of the world's greatest sporting nations, stating "if we are to safeguard the future of Australian sport, we must be prepared to embrace necessary reform.

"The Government will also ensure that sport and physical activity play a key role in our preventative health agenda."

The directions paper Australian Sport: emerging challenges, new directions outlines two key areas where the Government will introduce reform - the way we support elite sport; and the way sport is used to boost participation and physical activity to help build a healthier nation.

It further outlines particular projects the Government will pursue this term including the promotion of the position of women in sport; improving program delivery of Indigenous sport and enhancing support and recognition of disabled sport.

Minister Ellis said the talents and experience of the incoming Commission members matched the new direction of Government sports policy and she was confident they would each make important and positive contributions.

The new ASC members to help strengthen Australia's sporting future are:
• Liz Ellis - former Australian netball captain and lawyer
• David Gallop - experienced sporting administrator
• Kate Allen (nee Slatter) - multiple Olympic rowing medallist and banking executive
• Kyle Vander-Kuyp - current Australian hurdles record holder and Indigenous community leader
• Sally Carbon - Olympic hockey gold medallist and children's author.

ASC Chairman Peter Bartels and existing members Alisa Camplin and Greg Hartung will remain on the board, with Mr Hartung appointed the new Deputy Chairman.

Five other ASC board members retire today as their terms end. They are outgoing Deputy Chair Alan Jones, Roy Masters, Pam Tye, Kieren Perkins and Geoff Stooke.

"The Rudd Government records its great appreciation to these retiring Commission members - each have been significant servants and supporters of Australian sport," Minister Ellis stated, adding "I note the long service and strong contributions of each."

Changes have also been made to the board of the Australian Sports Foundation (ASF). Greg Hartung will replace Pam Tye as ASF Chair and Sally Carbon will take the place of Geoff Stooke.

Australian Sport: emerging challenges, new directions is available from: www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/sport-australian-sport