Executive Summary
16 November 2024
There has been more progress towards gender equality and pay equality in sport in the last decade than the prior century, but key barriers remain according to a landmark report released today by Champions of Change Coalition Sport Group.
“Unstoppable” describes the wins, challenges and future focus areas to achieve the Group’s vision for gender equality in sport within a generation. According to the Sport CEOs, priorities must include:
- increasing the representation of women in leadership roles
- creating viable and sustainable career pathways for women in all aspects of sport
- increasing investment in women’s sports
- closing the gender pay gap, and
- most critically, fostering safe, respectful, and inclusive sports cultures for all.
Released 10 years after the initial call to establish the Champions of Change Sport Group and five years since the launch of the Coalition’s measurement framework, Pathway to Gender Equality and Pay Equality in Sport, the report demonstrates the outcomes of a concerted effort towards gender equality across the sports ecosystem.
This landmark report provides a comprehensive view of collective efforts to build a foundation for a more equitable and inclusive sports culture in Australia.
Full Report: Unstoppable: Progress towards gender equality and pay equality in Australian Sport
Summary: Unstoppable: Progress towards gender equality and pay equality in Australian Sport
“Sport is in many ways the heartbeat of Australian culture, with an unmatched ability to lead social and community change. The advancements made on gender equality in sport over the past 10 years are proof of the substantial impact we can have if we work collectively, collaboratively, and stay the course,” noted Elizabeth Broderick AO, Champions of Change Coalition Founder and Convenor of the Sport Group.
According to Elizabeth, sustained leadership, commitment and action are now required.
“It’s not that long ago that women were practically invisible in most aspects of sport, particularly elite sport. While much has been achieved, gender equality must be built into the fabric of all sport into the future. It is critical that more leaders in the sector, and across business and society, join in, contribute to, implement, and amplify this work,” she said.
The report emphasises the importance of sustained action to secure gender equality for future generations. Although significant progress has been achieved, reaching true parity requires an ongoing commitment from sports leaders, stakeholders, and the wider community.
