Coaching Action Plan
Alongside Officials, Coaches are at the heart of the Play Well strategy, shaping sport into a space that is safe, welcoming, inclusive, and fun for all. Their influence reaches far beyond the sporting field, fostering belonging, building confidence and creating environments where participants can thrive.
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC), in collaboration with the sport sector, has made significant strides in reshaping coaching through the Modern Approach, a shift from coach-centred to participant-centred practice. This approach recognises the diverse needs, motivations and aspirations of participants, and empowers coaches to create positive, engaging and inclusive environments.
Building on this momentum, ASC have now recruited and established a Coaching Advisory Group to guide, influence and support the continued transformation of sport coaching in Australia through the co-design and development of a Coaching Action Plan. The Action Plan will elevate the role of coaches whose predominant work does not involve working with professional or categorised athletes.
Why is this work important?
Coaches in all environments are leaders in sport. Their influence extends far beyond skill acquisition to shaping how people feel in sport, fostering belonging, building confidence and creating environments where participants can thrive. The Coaching Action Plan, developed and led by the Coaching Advisory Group, will reposition coaches as key influencers of the sporting environment, defining a coordinated system for their attraction, engagement and development.
Coaching Advisory Group
Members
The Coaching Advisory Group will serve as a strategic and collaborative body that guides, influences and supports the transformation of coaching across the Australian sport system. The Group will lead the co-design and development of a future-focused Coaching Action Plan, a multi-year roadmap that builds leadership capability, strengthens connection, and embeds positive sporting environments at scale. The Coaching Advisory Group will build system momentum through advocating for the leadership role that coaches at all levels play in shaping participant experiences.
- Commit to active participation, including attending scheduled meetings, completing pre- and post-work and engaging in discussions and working groups.
- Contribute constructively in an advisory capacity. This includes offering insight, expertise and considered feedback.
- Review and provide feedback on draft documents, plans, proposals and initiatives related to the transformation of coaching.
- Collaborate with other members and stakeholders to explore innovative approaches and solutions for advancing coaching in Australia.
- Advocate for the voice of coaching by promoting its importance, through engaging stakeholders to build collective commitment and momentum.
- Represent the broader interests of the sport system and coaching community over and above any one group, while bringing their own perspective and expertise.
- Declare and actively manage any perceived and/or actual conflicts of interest to the Chair should any arise during the activities of the Advisory Group.
- Behave in a manner consistent with the agreed values of the Advisory Group which will be established by the Advisory Group when formed.
- Agree to adhere to ASC policies.
Like to find out more and stay connected?
The Coaching Action Plan will be co-designed with the sport system, meaning there will be lots of opportunities to share your thoughts. If you would like to register for updates, shared regularly via email, please register your contact details below.
Please get in contact with the Coaching and Officiating team at coaching_and_officiating@ausport.gov.au if you have any questions.