Sport system sustainability
Explore how governance, workforce, funding, infrastructure and more contribute to a strong and sustainable sport system.
Engaging in sport, as fans, volunteers, players, in organised or casual settings is often seen as a core part of the Australian cultural identify. Sport as a sector is evolving and needs to continue to do so, to ensure that it remains sustainable and meets the expectations of Australians into the future. 1, 4 There are many components of sustainability in the sector, including the people, places, partners, and programs. 2
The Australian sport system has committed to both playing and winning well, aiming to ensure that our sporting system policies and practices support lifelong involvement in sport for more Australians. This includes focussing on the long-term financial viability of organisations and programs; sustainable development of athletes, coaches, volunteers, and staff across all levels of sport; and understanding the vale and impact the sporting community has and can have on the environment and broader social objectives. 2, 3
Topics
Discover more about sport system sustainability.

Modified sports
Modified sports are generally designed to be an introductory or more accessible version of a sport.
Factors influencing sport participation
Research has identified a number of factors that can motivate or provide barriers to participation in sport.
Grants and funding for sport and recreation
Australian governments invest over AU$1.3b annually in the sport and active recreation sector.
Structure of Australian sport
The structure of sport provides insight into how the sector connects and operates from national to local levels.
Child Protection in Sport
'Child protection' is concerned with keeping young people safe from abuse, discrimination, and harassment.
Australian Sport Policy
Australian governments at all levels leverage the benefits of sport for the wider community.
Volunteers in sport
An estimated 2.8 million Australians volunteer in the sport and active recreation sector each year.
Engaging Parents in Sport
Parents have a unique opportunity to help their children develop life-long engagement and enjoyment with sport and physical activity.
Cost of Sports Injuries
Physical activity and sport participation will always carry a risk of activity related injuries.
Network Resources
Networks are a useful way for organisations, committees and both formal and informal working groups to connect, share ideas and exchange knowledge and resources—either openly or through secure channels—to support the development of sport.
Some resources could require login or membership and may be restricted to those working in the Australian sport sector due to licensing, copyright or privacy conditions. If you think you should have access, please contact us.
- Open Access
National Gender Equity in Sports Governance Policy
A collaboration to influence change and improve gender equity in governance and leadership across sport. - Open Access
National Governance Resource Library
Guides, templates and tools for national and state sporting organisations. - Restricted
People and Culture Network
Theoretical and practical resources designed to strengthen workforce capability across Australia’s sporting system.
REFERENCES
- The Future of Australian Sport. The second report: Megatrends shaping the sport sector over coming …, CSIRO and the Australian Sports Commission, (2022).
- Play Well: Australia’s Sport Participation Strategy, Australian Sport Sector, (2023).
- 2032+ Australia’s High Performance Sport Strategy, Australia's High Performance Sport System, (2022).
- Community Perceptions Monitor Annual Report 2024-2025, ORIMA Research for the Australian Sports Commission, (August 2025).
Last updated: 17 February 2026 Content disclaimer: See Clearinghouse for Sport disclaimer
Is this information complete? The Clearinghouse for Sport is a sector-wide knowledge sharing initiative, and as such your contributions are encouraged and appreciated. If you would like to suggest a resource, submit a publication, or provide feedback on this topic, please contact us.
























