Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Sport and Recreation, opens in a new tab supports programs to increase participation in social through to high performance sport in Canberra through infrastructure planning, athlete support, sector partnerships and capacity building programs to contribute to health, social and economic benefits.

• Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community Council, opens in a new tab administers the Indigenous Sports Grant Program on behalf of the ACT Government for ACT residents seeking support for their participation in sport and Recreation Activities.

Programs, resources, and reports

• Indigenous Australians’ participation in sports and physical activities - Qualitative Research Report ACT, opens in a new tab, ORC International, (2017). Sport and Recreation engaged ORC Intentional to conduct research on participation in sport and physical activity amongst Indigenous people in the ACT region (including Queanbeyan). The research explored current participation levels and behaviours, key drivers and barriers to participation and the role of sport and sporting clubs within communities. The research was qualitative, with focus groups and interviews being with Indigenous people age 15 years and over. Additionally, interviews were conducted with intermediaries who are engaged in the organisation development of sports and physical activity programs which target Indigenous participation. Respondents were recruited by local Indigenous organisations which ORC partnered with for the research. Full report, opens in a new tab and Executive summary, opens in a new tab available. Some key findings included:
  • The key drivers for Indigenous participation in sports and physical activity included, desire for fun or enjoyment, a perceived (often health or fitness-driven) need, a lack of barriers, perceived suitability (to personal requirements and preferences), and the existence of external, social support or encouragement.
  • The main barriers fell broadly under the categories of other commitments, especially to family or community; personal illness or injury; financial constraints; access issues; safety or comfort concerns; a different cultural construct of sport and physical activity; and racism.