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Archery

A sport involving the use of a bow to shoot arrows at a target, it helps develop hand–eye coordination, balance, core stability, and upper body strength.

Archery as a sport was first practised in Australia by officers of the First Fleet upon their arrival in 1789. The first national organisation, the Archery Association of Australia, was formed in 1948. In 1993, the organisation was renamed as Archery Australia. 1

Discover more about archery through the Clearinghouse evidence base:

Evolution:

  • Australian Bowhunters Association [1978-]
  • Archery Association of Australia [1948-1993]
  • Archery Australia [1993-]

Participation

An archery target

An estimated 54,825 Australian adults [aged 15+] participated in archery at least once in 2024. 2

A bow and arrow

An estimated 10,918 Australian children [aged 0-14] participated in archery at least once in 2024. 2

A para archer holding a bow

An estimated 18,003 Australian women [aged 15+] and an estimated 33,343 Australian men [aged 15+] participated in archery at least once in 2024. 2

Explore further participation statistics for archery through the AusPlay online portal., opens in a new tab

Governing body

Archery Australia, opens in a new tab is a not-for-profit community and membership-based organisation recognised by government at all levels as the National controlling body for the sport of archery in Australia.

Documents

The Clearinghouse for Sport has sought permission from relevant organisations for the inclusion of their documents in this archive. Copyright ownership remains vested with the organisation and as such permission from the copyright owner should be sought if you wish to communicate, adapt or reproduce these documents.

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 page, please contact us.

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