We are moving quickly into the implementation phase of changes to the Australian sport system and to the Australian Sports Commission (ASC).

This follows on from nearly 12 months of working with our system partners in sport and recreation to initially develop a new direction – “Working together for Australian sport” – and then ensure it aligned with the Government’s reform agenda – “The Pathway to Success” announced in the May 2010 budget.

In implementing these changes, we face a number of challenges and I want to assure you that the ASC’s is absolutely committed to ensuring we deliver on the expectations of sport and the Government.

Understanding system leadership – the most significant new role for ASC

System leadership is an important new role for the ASC and one recognised in the Crawford Review and the Australian Government’s response to that review (“The Pathway to Success”). You will have heard of many of the key activities that this role will require us to undertake. These include system planning and coordination, development of national strategies to address core issues facing sport and building improved information and research.

This new role also requires us to operate somewhat differently and, for example, to place much greater focus on relationships with our system partners, to look for opportunities to activate new non-traditional partnerships and to look beyond just the sport outcomes. We often reflect how great a vehicle sport is to deliver outcomes beyond sport – it is now opportune to work at realising these broader outcomes as well as improved participation and international success.

Already the ASC’s system’s leadership team has been working closely system partners in the development of several key initiatives. These activities are demonstrating we are serious about providing valuable leadership to the system in a way that is congruent with our expectations of our partners. The ASC is determined this good work done so far is maintained and not a flash in the pan.

National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework

Good progress continues to be made on developing the first National Sport & Active Recreation Policy Framework. The ASC has been working closely with its State and Territory counterparts and the Sports Branch within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to develop the new Framework, which will be an important guide to governments, informing their responses to strategic issues and identifying the priority areas for cooperative action. It is expected Ministers will consider a final draft of the Framework at their next meeting in early 2011.

Until next time

Matt Miller
Chief Executive Officer
Australian Sports Commission