The lead-up to an Olympic and Paralympic year is always hectic and often quickly forgotten when the big events roll around. It's worthwhile reflecting on what has been achieved.

Australian athletes and sports celebrated many triumphs, with the likes of Cadel Evans, Sally Pearson, James Magnussen and Sam Stosur producing stunning international performances.

While our athletes' successes are a great source of pride for Australians, it's a result of hard work, commitment and innovation.  Our collective commitment to excellence is critical; in my short time in this role, I've been extremely encouraged by the support our athletes receive.

A significant moment for Australian sport came off the sporting field with the signing of the National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework by the Commonwealth and State and Territory Governments.  For the first time, we will all be working to a shared vision by contributing to common objectives ranging from growing participation at the grassroots level to enhancing high performance sport.

The endorsement of the National Institute System Intergovernmental Agreement also provides a new national approach to improve coordination and better align Australia's high performance effort.  Its aim is simple: deliver world class Australian athletes.

Here at the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) we've been actively involved in some exciting initiatives including: the Green and Gold project; the opening of the AIS European Training Centre; the Captains' Forum; and the recent launch of the Prime Minister's Olympic and Paralympic Challenges.

Although I'm relatively new to the CEO role, I am proud of this high level of achievement and excellence.  2012 shapes up as an exciting and challenging year for us all, especially for those with their sights set on London.

I would like to thank ASC staff and our sporting partners for your hard work and commitment over the past year and wish everyone a safe and happy festive season.

Simon Hollingsworth
CEO
Australian Sports Commission