Welcoming Clubs is Welcoming Australia’s overarching initiative for programs that embrace the power of sport and recreation as a vehicle for inclusion, opportunity and belonging for all members of the community.
Our vision is to inspire and activate community sport and recreation clubs and the organisations responsible for supporting them to foster an environment of genuine acceptance, equity and unity. This change will ripple across all levels of our sporting landscapes, from leadership and volunteers to athletes, participants and supporters.
We believe that this evolution will extend beyond sports or clubs boundaries, inspiring broader social change and setting an example for other organisations. By celebrating diversity and championing inclusion, sporting clubs, providers and organisations will not only enrich the experiences of their existing community but also contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.
By actively engaging community members in learning opportunities, sharing resources, and celebrating success we can challenge ingrained biases, dismantle barriers, and empower individuals to become advocates for diversity and inclusion.
As more members of the community learn about and embrace different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, a shift towards open-mindedness and respect will move our sporting communities towards a more inclusive future that is reflective of Australian society.
With sustained efforts that enhance accessibility, communication, and representation, we believe that clubs and codes will not only attract a more diverse membership but also retain it. A sense of belonging will flourish, enabling every participant to belong, thrive and contribute their unique strengths to the club’s success.
Explore programs designed to build more welcoming and inclusive sport and recreation.
Build practical knowledge and skills through our inclusion training and learning opportunities.
Measure your clubs inclusive practice now to identify opportunities to strengthen inclusion.
Welcoming Australia exists to cultivate a culture of welcome and create a future where people of all backgrounds have equal opportunity to belong contribute and thrive
Welcoming Clubs is an initiative of Welcoming Australia, proudly supported by the Scanlon Foundation.
Our work is conducted on the stolen lands and waters of First Nations representing hundreds of clans and language groups. We acknowledge that our lives have benefitted from theft and dispossession and that we have a responsibility to support the efforts of Indigenous peoples as they work towards self-determination, sovereignty and land back. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.
Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.