Focus on community sport infrastructure

Girl being lifted by teammates. | Newsreel
A new national plan will look at community sport inclusiveness. | Photo: Fat Camera (iStock)

A first-of-it-type national plan is being developed to make grassroots sporting facilities more inclusive.

Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Executive General Manager of Sport and Community Capability Richard McInnes said the first National Sport Infrastructure Action Plan was a major step forward for community sport.

Mr McInnes said the plan was being developed with a goal to make sporting facilities across the country more “welcoming, accessible and inclusive”.

“Australia is stepping into a new era of sport infrastructure; one defined by purpose, collaboration and innovation,” he said.

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

Mr McInnes said an Industry Advisory Group made up of sport and government leaders, including Matthew Burton, the Executive Director of Infrastructure & Precincts (Sport and Recreation) at the Queensland Government Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games, would 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.”

He said the National Sport Infrastructure Action Plan would be published in late 2025.