More than 120 participation leaders from across Australian sport gathered at the AIS Campus in Canberra for the Participation Leaders Network (PLN) conference, marking five years of collaboration and shared learning across the sector.
Hosted by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) from 20-21 May, the conference brought together leaders from national and state sporting organisations, State & Territory Partners and Play Well Affiliates to reflect on progress, share practical insights and strengthen connections that support participation growth.
Toby Brown, Head of Participation and Club Development at AusCycling, said the conference provided an important opportunity for sports to look at all the work that's happening across the sector and learn from one another.
"I think it's really easy to get siloed in your sport and inherit legacy approaches," Brown said.
"Being able to challenge some of those existing structures and get a different perspective from other sports is so important."
The program centred on the PLN's four core pillars: building connection, empowering people, showcasing best practice, and challenging thinking.
Sessions also focused on bringing the Play Well Strategy to life by removing barriers to participation and improving the sport experience for communities across Australia, with discussions highlighting the broader role sport can play in building connection and stronger communities.
"What is coming through at this conference is social cohesion and justice. How do we use sport as a vehicle for social change?" said Ayden Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of Disability Sports Australia.
"I think that's what participation needs to focus on, because the value that sport provides is more than just health and physical activity benefits."
Strong attendance and engagement highlighted the growing value of the PLN, with continued demand for advisory support, workshops and strategic collaboration from the ASC.
"Five years on, you can already see the shift that's happened in that time, so it's wonderful to be part of it," Shaw added.
