Paddle Australia launches new strategic plan

Paddle Australia has today unveiled ‘Paddle Forward 32’ - its new strategic plan which sets up a bold new vision for paddling in Australia.

Paddle Forward 32 has been developed in consultation with Paddle Australia’s broader paddling community, led by new Chief Executive Kim Crane.  With the full support of State Associations, and the Paddle Australia Board working hand in hand with the Paddle Australia management team, Paddle Australia is ready to implement their new roadmap.

Designed to create a ‘home of paddle sports’, by creating a world-class sport, a vibrant adventure focused lifestyle along with a community where everyone belongs, Paddle Forward 32 is more than just a plan, it’s a movement.

Paddle Australia’s President and triple Olympian, Andrew Trim, said the new blueprint for the sport is designed to connect every paddler across the country.

Trim notes “Paddle Forward 32 is a call for every paddler, partner, and stakeholder to join in building a sport and lifestyle that inspires, unites, and thrives for generations to come.

“For us, success will require the sport to reach more people than ever before, welcome new participants as well as connect with broader communities.

“As Australia looks towards 2032 and the incredible opportunity hosting an Olympic & Paralympic Games will present, PA is uniting at all levels to shape the future of paddling in Australia.

“Our redefined purpose is to support, inspire, and develop all paddlers; fostering a sense of belonging to our world-leading sport and lifestyle.”

Following the Paris 2024 Olympic & Paralympic Games, where Paddle Australia achieved its best ever results with four gold, two silver and two bronze medals, Trim said now was the right time to reset and look at how the sport can achieve success more broadly.

Trim added “we are incredibly proud of the results our representative teams achieve on the world stage across all our paddle disciplines; and the people and role models we have both on and off the water including our Board members, National and State executives and staff, partners, commercial industry operators, coaches, officials, volunteers, families and fans are the best.

“This plan goes beyond our sporting success on the podium, with the vision to create a dynamic and thriving paddling ecosystem.

“While our clubs will always be at the heart of what we do, we want to engage actively with and add value to the broader paddling community.

“We have a rich history of success that gives us a strong foundation, and now it’s time to grow, expand and diversify our revenue streams.

“We are ready to implement our new roadmap with capability to lead and serve with energy, expertise and drive that will create a legacy all the way to Brisbane 2032 and beyond.”

To realise the sport’s vision, five pillars will support the growth strategy towards 2032:

• Pillar 1: Lifestyle, Clubs & Community - developing an inclusive and active paddling community with pathways, platforms and programs

• Pillar 2: Engagement & Partnerships - supporting the growth and sustainability of our sport and lifestyle

• Pillar 3: Sport & Events - elevating Australia as a premier paddle destination, improving quality of on/off water events and promoting quality paddling experiences

• Pillar 4: Performance & Pathways - supporting our Australian athletes to become the world's best paddlers and people

• Pillar 5: Leadership & Services - leading with capability to serve, grow, promote and advocate for our paddling community.

Access Paddle Australia’s ‘Paddle Forward 32’ strategic plan