National Indigenous Sports Summit 2024 sets priorities for years ahead

The National Indigenous Sports Summit 2024 attracted over 70 representatives to Naam Melbourne on Friday 15th November to discuss the issues impacting Indigenous sport across Australia.

The attendees came from government and non-government agencies from health, sport and community services; national peak bodies and national sporting organisations; former and current sports men and women; and representatives from state, regional and local entities.

The National Indigenous Sports Summit (NISS 2024) considered the priorities made in the inaugural NISS from 2017, heard of progress achieved and set priorities for the coming years. 

NISS 2024 was hosted by the National Indigenous Sports Foundation which was established based on the 2017 recommendations.

The Summit heard from legendary First Nations speakers including Patrick Johnson, Katrina Fanning, Paul Briggs, Linda Bamblett, Benny Mills, Leon Davis and Paralympian Tracy Barrell, with MC Megan Waters directing the discussion.

Priorities to be addressed include Racism – programs and accountability, the foundations of successful First Nations development and pathway programs and need for greater resources to ensure access to grassroots sport, particularly in regional and remote locations.  Creating opportunities for greater advancement to senior coaching, management and board positions was keenly promoted.

The NISS 2024 Report is being developed and will be released within a short timeframe.