Ministry of Sport

Ministry of Sports Unveils Unmissable Sports Forum and Unmissable Sports Lunch

Posted on June 19, 2026June 19, 2026 by Courtney

We are proud to unveil our Unmissable Sports Forum – “The Business of Global Sport” alongside the Unmissable Sports Lunch – “Football Legends Live, which will be held at Perth this Friday 7 August 2026 – Optus Stadium.

The programme aims to creates a centralised corporate cluster designed to capitalise on the presence of touring international football clubs and driving high-value business, investment, and tourism outcomes in the region.

Unmissable Sports Forum – “The Business of Global Sport”

The morning session materialises as a limited-capacity corporate gathering inside Riverview Room 3 from 8:30am to 12:00pm, mapping the intersecting economic pipelines of global football, domestic athletics, and government investment.

The forum features a prominent institutional lineup led by the Deputy Premier of Western Australia, Hon. Rita Saffioti MLA, who will sit alongside executive representatives from European football powerhouses AC Milan, Inter Milan, Juventus, and Palermo FC, as well as domestic sporting giants the West Coast Eagles and Melbourne Storm.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Created for those building, funding and shaping the future of sport.

Business leaders
Sport executives
Government
Investors
Commercial decision-makers
Brands, sponsors & agencies
Athletes & player representatives

Panel discussions will explore the broader macroeconomic impacts of major sporting infrastructure, analysing how global events function as catalysts to drive regional visitation, stimulate foreign investment, and secure lucrative commercial sponsorships.

Tickets to event: Secure your place at “The Business of Global Sport” forum

Unmissable Sports Lunch – “Football Legends Live”

The commercial activation transitions immediately into the afternoon with the Unmissable Sports Lunch – “Football Legends Live,” operating from 12:30pm to 3:30pm within the premium Riverview precinct of Optus Stadium.

The corporate hospitality asset features a world-first assembly of football royalty, placing legendary icons Christian Vieri, Alessandro Del Piero, Javier Zanetti, and Giorgio Chiellini together on a single Australian stage.

The program is built to appeal to corporate marketers, premium hospitality buyers, and football enthusiasts, blending high-value networking with a live athletic training session component.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:

Business leaders
Sport executives
Government
Investors
Commercial decision-makers
Brands, sponsors & agencies
Athletes & player representatives
Football fans

The presence of multi-time World Cup winners and European champions offers corporate partners an elite platform to examine leadership, high-performance team culture, and brand management through the lens of global sports celebrities.

Tickets to event: Reserve your limited corporate table or individual ticket for the “Football Legends Live” lunch.

The execution of both events over a single day forms a commercial cornerstone of Perth’s wider Unmissable Sports Week, maximising the economic return on international club tours by converting sporting spectacles into measurable corporate assets that strengthen Western Australia’s position within the global sports economy.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.

Ministry of Sport Unveils Women in Sport Summit 2026 at Adelaide Oval

Posted on June 16, 2026June 19, 2026 by Courtney

Australia’s leading commercial platform for women’s sport returns, bringing together the decision-makers, investors, athletes and brands shaping the future of the industry.

With global investment in women’s sport accelerating at an unprecedented rate, alongside record audience growth and expanding commercial opportunities, the Women in Sport Summit arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry.

Scheduled to take place from 19–22 October 2026 | Adelaide, and South Australia are uniquely positioned to lead this next chapter — emerging as a destination for world-class sporting events, innovation, leadership and long-term growth across the global sports economy.

The platform will transition to direct commercial acceleration, uniting prominent international executives, institutional investors, elite athletes, and tier-one corporate brands under a unified corporate framework.

Ministry of Sport founder and CEO, Ben Parsons, emphasised that the national sports landscape has arrived at a critical juncture requiring coordinated executive action to sustain current commercial momentum.

“Women’s sport in Australia has reached a defining commercial moment.”

“WISS exists to bring together the leaders, brands and investors shaping what comes next,” Parsons stated.

The Summit is engineered to map the entire commercial pipeline of the women’s sports ecosystem, from emerging talent pathways to high-performance science and institutional capital allocation.

Day 1: Futures Day on focusing on career pipelines for students.

Day 2 : Performance Forum, an exercise and sports science Australia accredited assembly bringing together high-performance coaches, sports scientists, and medical specialists.

Day 3: Leadership Summit, where sporting executives, media rights lawyers, corporate marketers, and venture capitalists will analyse strategies to unlock alternative revenue streams, scale emerging sports properties, and establish sustainable investment structures.

Day 4: WISS Barossa Leadership Experience, a curated corporate networking track designed to facilitate long-term business relationships and joint venture deals.

From grassroots pathways to elite performance and commercial growth, WISS connects every stage of the ecosystem in one unified platform featuring global executives, visionary athletes, and industry disruptors across key sectors. Attendees will gain exclusive insights into unlocking new revenue streams, scaling women’s sport properties, and building sustainable commercial ecosystems that deliver long-term value.

This is not a conference. It’s a commercial inflection point for women’s sport.

Proudly brought to you by event partners: Business Events Adelaide, South Australian Government

Early Bird tickets are now available: Women in Sport Summit Australia 2026 – Ministry of Sport.

Manly Sea Eagles Sports Business Academy Launches Elite Personal Trainer Program

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Manly Sea Eagles Sports Business Academy has officially announced the launch of its Elite Personal Trainer Program, a premium education initiative delivered in partnership with the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers (AIPT).

This full-time program offers aspiring fitness professionals a unique pathway to gain nationally recognised qualifications while working directly within the environment of a professional NRL club.

Designed to bridge the gap between theoretical fitness education and the rigours of elite sports performance, the course comprises the Certificate III in Fitness (SIS30321) and Certificate IV in Fitness (SIS40221).

Participants will benefit from an immersive, face-to-face learning model based at the Sea Eagles’ high-performance facilities, where they will train alongside professionals and engage in regular practical coaching sessions.

Beyond the core curriculum, the program distinguishes itself through exclusive Masterclasses led by industry experts. These sessions will cover specialised topics including high-performance culture, strength and conditioning, injury rehabilitation, and athlete development.

Emphasising that the program’s value extends far beyond traditional certification, Sea Eagles head of education & foundation, Tim Gee, said: “We’ve created a unique learning experience that allows aspiring Personal Trainers to immerse themselves in the culture, professionalism and environment of the club while developing the practical skills and confidence needed to thrive in the fitness industry.”

The inaugural intake is scheduled for September 2026, with the academy limiting enrolment to just 22 students to maintain a personalised training environment. The program is specifically targeted at school leavers, dedicated fitness enthusiasts, and career-changers eager to transition into the health and fitness sector.

By leveraging AIPT’s 25 years of experience in vocational training, the Sea Eagles aim to prepare graduates for high-level roles in personal training, coaching, and sports science.

Applications for the September intake are now open, with the academy inviting prospective students to register for upcoming information sessions to explore the curriculum and facility access in greater detail.

Gold Coast Titans Bring ‘Blade’s Buddies’ Junior Clinic to Burleigh

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Gold Coast Titans are set to host the final school holiday clinic of the 2026 season tomorrow, Wednesday, July 8, at the Burleigh Bears Junior Rugby League Football Club.

Following a successful turnout of over 100 participants at the recent Parkwood clinic, the organisation is extending its grassroots engagement program to the Burleigh community to foster the development of aspiring rugby league talent.

The clinic is specifically designed to accommodate boys and girls aged between 5 and 13 across all skill levels, providing a structured environment for young players to refine their skills under the guidance of club representatives.

Participation in the event is facilitated through the “Blade’s Buddies” membership, which is priced at $59. In addition to entry for the clinic, the membership package includes a comprehensive merchandise set featuring a branded hat, a Steeden football, and a boot bag.

The schedule for the afternoon is as follows: Registration is set to open at 12:40 pm, followed by the main clinic activities from 1:10 pm to 3:30 pm, which will include an afternoon tea break for participants. The day will conclude with a player signing session starting at 3:30 pm, offering children the opportunity to engage directly with the club’s representatives.

With spots strictly limited and this event serving as the final opportunity for the 2026 school holiday period, the Titans are encouraging parents to secure their children’s places promptly.

The program continues the club’s ongoing effort to strengthen its ties with local junior rugby league associations and promote active participation in the sport throughout the Gold Coast region.

Brisbane Broncos Unveil Indigenous Round Jersey Designed by Student Artist

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Brisbane Broncos have officially unveiled their 2026 Indigenous Round jersey, a historic moment for the club during NAIDOC Week.

In a first for the organisation, the design was created by Ladda Kaewhanam, a 17-year-old student and participant in the club’s “Beyond the Broncos” Indigenous mentoring program.

A proud Whadjuk Noongar and Wangkathaa young woman, Ladda’s artwork was refined in collaboration with Quandamooka artist Casey Coolwell-Fisher to produce the final kit.

Titled “One Journey to The Other,” the design serves as a powerful narrative of connection between people, generations, and cultures across the Australian landscape.

The artwork draws inspiration from Ladda’s personal experiences, emphasising the fundamental importance of family, identity, and the transformative power of education.

The jersey will be worn by both the Broncos’ NRL and NRLW teams during their upcoming Indigenous Round fixtures, including high-stakes NRL clashes against the Dolphins on 8 August and the Warriors on 15 August at Suncorp Stadium.

Lauding the initiative, Brisbane Broncos CEO, Dave Donaghy, highlighted the club’s deep-rooted commitment to supporting Indigenous communities through the “Beyond the Broncos” program, which has assisted over 7,000 students across Queensland and northern New South Wales since 2015.

“We’re incredibly proud to launch this year’s Indigenous Round jersey during such an important week.”

“NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate the rich history, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and for us, a longstanding connection to Indigenous players and communities.

“To have Ladda become the first Beyond the Broncos student to design our Indigenous Round jersey is a remarkable achievement and a testament to her talent and creativity but also the opportunities the Beyond the Broncos program helps create,” Donaghy stated.

For Ladda Kaewhanam, the opportunity represents a significant milestone in her creative journey.

“Designing this jersey has been an incredible honour, and being part of the Broncos family is so special.”

“My artwork is about the journeys we take throughout our lives, the people who guide us, and the connections we have to our families, our communities and our culture.

“I hope everyone who wears the jersey feels proud of the story it tells,” Ladda said.

The launch campaign features the new design alongside Broncos stars including Ezra Mam, Kotoni Staggs, Gehamat Shibasaki, Romy Teitzel, and Georgia Barlett, further solidifying the jersey’s significance as a symbol of both sporting excellence and cultural pride.

ARLC Seals Record-Breaking $5.3 Billion NRL Broadcast Partnership

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has announced a seven-year $5.3 billion media rights agreement, marking the largest broadcast and media partnership in Australian sporting history.

Commencing in 2028, the deal reinforces the existing partnership with Foxtel Group, Nine, and Sky NZ while placing a strategic emphasis on fan affordability, content modernisation, and aggressive international expansion.

A cornerstone of the agreement is a renewed commitment to fan accessibility. ARLC chairman, Peter V’landys, highlighted that maintaining affordability was a non-negotiable requirement for the Commission.

“One of the vital requirements that we needed and we’ve delivered was it would be affordable to the fan.

“Thanks to DAZN, we’ve agreed to ensure the fan can afford to watch the great game of rugby league,” V’landys stated.

The partnership introduces significant structural changes, most notably returning control of the competition draw and season scheduling to the ARLC.

Furthermore, NRL CEO, Andrew Abdo, noted that the deal mandates a modernisation of content distribution, granting clubs and creators greater access to footage to drive deeper engagement.

“What you’ll see in the new deal, you’ll see changes around the draw and the season structure belonging with the game, which the broadcasters have embraced well.”

“Also the way in which modernisation has occurred in terms of content creators and clubs being able to access footage and bring that to life for fans,” Abdo noted.

Under the new terms, every NRL and NRLW match will be broadcast live in Australia via Foxtel. Nine retains exclusive rights to the NRL Grand Final and the Men’s and Women’s State of Origin series, in addition to simulcasting three weekly matches.

In New Zealand, Sky NZ will continue to support the sport’s rapid growth, with 130 fixtures slated for free-to-air platforms.

Looking beyond domestic borders, the ARLC is pivoting toward a global growth strategy. By leveraging a marketing agreement with DAZN, which boasts 400 million subscribers, the NRL aims to significantly expand its international footprint.

V’landys expressed confidence that the $5.3 billion figure is only a baseline, anticipating that global expansion efforts will drive the total value of the deal even higher over time.

The announcement arrives amidst a period of record-breaking viewership and stadium attendance, with players and industry stakeholders alike noting the sport’s enhanced pace and competitiveness as key drivers of its current commercial momentum.

adidas Unveils Custom TRIONDA FINAL Match Ball for FIFA World Cup Concluding Stages

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

Adidas has officially unveiled the TRIONDA FINAL, the Official Match Ball designated for the semi-finals, bronze final, and final of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Released with less than two weeks remaining until the tournament’s showpiece final in New York New Jersey, the launch represents a significant commercial milestone for the German sportswear giant.

For the first time in the history of the tournament, adidas has moved away from a traditional colour variation to introduce a completely bespoke design, intentionally crafted to leverage the immense global viewership of the tournament’s concluding fixtures.

The aesthetic configuration of the TRIONDA FINAL utilises a premium gold finish to mirror the iconic World Cup trophy, contrasted against a deep black base to elevate its premium positioning. Crucially, the ball serves as a marketing platform to recognise the 16 host cities across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Praising the rollout, FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, stating, said: “The TRIONDA FINAL ball for the last four matches of the FIFA World Cup is here.”

“The iconic TRIONDA has brought so much joy every time it has hit the back of the net in this FIFA World Cup and it perfectly embodies the unity and passion of the tournament’s host nations Canada, Mexico and the United States.

“For the final four matches of the tournament, this TRIONDA FINAL will be at the feet of the best players on the planet.

“Through every touch, dribble, flick, pass, cross, save, strike and goal, the 16 cities that have helped FIFA stage the record-breaking 23rd edition of the tournament will be further etched into FIFA World Cup folklore,” Infantino

The four regions staging the final matches: Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, and New York New Jersey, are featured heavily within the central visual blocking.

Meanwhile, the contributions of the other twelve host cities, including Boston, Guadalajara, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Monterrey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, Toronto, and Vancouver, are integrated into the primary triangular graphics to ensure complete regional representation.

Beyond its visual identity, the ball delivers critical technical utility by embedding the latest evolution of adidas Connected Ball Technology.

This system supplies instantaneous data directly to match officials to streamline the decision-making process, while simultaneously enriching the analytical data streams available to global broadcast partners.

Formula One Powerboat National Championships to Anchor Pittsburgh’s Fourth of July Celebrations

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Formula One Powerboat National Championships are set to return to Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers in 2027, marking the beginning of a major three-year partnership between SportsPITTSBURGH and the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) Powerboat Series.

This collaboration will establish a new annual Fourth of July tradition, transforming the city’s waterfront into an action-packed, two-day land and water racing festival.

The event, which returns to the city after a decade-long hiatus, will feature high-speed competition on the Allegheny River.

Drivers across the Formula One, Formula Lights, and Tri-Hull classes will navigate the demanding course, with powerboats reaching speeds of up to 120 mph. To complement the high-octane racing, the festival will offer a wide array of family-friendly entertainment, including fly-boarders, stunt dog exhibitions, and a signature drone light show.

The agreement represents a significant milestone for SportsPITTSBURGH, as it marks the first time a major sporting event will be directly owned and operated by VisitPITTSBURGH’s sports tourism division.

This shift is part of a broader local strategy to create “signature experiences” that drive long-term economic growth and cement Pittsburgh’s status as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.

The IHRA, which acquired the F1 Powerboat Racing series in December 2025, views the Pittsburgh venue as a vital component of its mission to unify the sport under a vision of improved safety standards and enhanced fan engagement.

With preparations already underway a year in advance, stakeholders expect the event to draw substantial tourism, supporting local businesses and highlighting Pittsburgh’s waterfront assets to a national audience.

Women in Sport Speaker Submission

Posted on July 7, 2026July 7, 2026 by Courtney

Premier Lacrosse League Secures Landmark $100 Million Series E Funding for LA28 Expansion

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Courtney

The Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) has successfully closed a $100 million Series E financing round, marking the largest capital investment in the history of professional lacrosse.

Led by Ares and Alibaba Group Chairperson Joe Tsai, the round includes a strategic minority equity investment from ESPN and contributions from a high-profile group of investors, including actor Glen Powell, Wrexham A.F.C. co-chairman Rob McElhenney, and singer-songwriter Warren Zeiders.

This influx of capital is strategically timed to accelerate the league’s growth ahead of lacrosse’s highly anticipated return to the Olympic Games at LA28. The PLL plans to deploy these funds across four core pillars: expanding media distribution, enhancing commercial partnerships, scaling the Women’s Lacrosse League (WLL), and increasing youth accessibility to the sport across North America.

Emphasising the timing of the investment, co-founder and CEO of the Premier Lacrosse League, Mike Rabil, said: “Lacrosse is entering one of the most important periods in its history.”

“With the Olympics on the horizon, we have an opportunity to introduce the sport to a new generation of fans and athletes around the world.

“Our focus is on building the infrastructure to support that growth through elite competition, broader distribution, youth participation, and a stronger professional ecosystem,” Rabil stated.

As part of the financing, co-head of Ares Sports, Media and Entertainment, Jim Miller, will join the PLL board of directors.

Additionally, Glen Powell will join the league as a creative advisor to collaborate with founders Paul and Mike Rabil on brand expansion.

“Lacrosse has the ingredients to become one of the most exciting growth stories in sports.”

“I’m thrilled to invest in the PLL and WLL and help bring professional lacrosse to the forefront of culture. Starting with my home state of Texas,” Powell added.

The PLL currently operates eight men’s teams across North America and four women’s teams under the WLL banner.

The league is currently evaluating a transition from its traditional touring model toward a franchise-based ownership structure, with expansion into markets like Texas serving as a primary target for future development.

NBA Confirms Salary Cap and Financial Thresholds for 2026-27 Season

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Courtney

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has officially established the financial framework for the 2026-27 season, with the salary cap confirmed at $164.961 million.

This figure, alongside the luxury tax level of $200.428 million, came into effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on July 1, 2026, setting the stage for a busy offseason and the current free agency window.

The league has also detailed the mandatory minimum team salary, which stands at $148.465 million. Furthermore, the financial landscape is governed by the two “apron” levels, which impose significant roster-building restrictions on teams that exceed them: the first apron is set at $209.015 million, while the second apron sits at $221.686 million.

These thresholds are critical for teams looking to navigate the complex Collective Bargaining Agreement during the current free agency period.

To assist teams in roster management, the NBA has outlined the values for its three mid-level exceptions.

The Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception is valued at $15.044 million, the Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception is $6.064 million, and the Mid-Level Exception for teams operating with room under the salary cap is $9.366 million.

The league’s free agency moratorium period, which commenced on July 1, concludes today, July 6, at 12:00 p.m. ET. With the moratorium period now ending, teams are positioned to finalise player contracts and formalise roster moves ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

William Blair Expands Sports Advisory Footprint with Acquisition of Inner Circle Sports

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Courtney

William Blair has officially announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Inner Circle Sports, a preeminent boutique investment bank specialising in the global sports, media, and entertainment ecosystem.

This move is designed to significantly broaden William Blair’s investment banking platform, allowing the firm to deepen its advisory and capital markets capabilities within the high-growth sports vertical. Under the terms of the agreement, Inner Circle Sports will retain its established brand identity for a transitional period following the integration.

Since its founding in 2002, Inner Circle Sports has secured a reputation as a trusted advisor to a diverse client base, including professional team owners, major leagues, institutional investors, sports operating companies, municipalities, and universities.

The boutique firm provides comprehensive end-to-end advisory services, encompassing buy-side and sell-side M&A, limited partner transactions, capital raising, complex valuations, and debt financing. By incorporating this vertical expertise, William Blair aims to better serve clients navigating the increasingly complex lifecycle of sports and media investments.

The acquisition reflects William Blair’s broader strategy of building specialised advisory capabilities aligned with the long-term needs of its global clientele. As an independent, employee-owned firm, William Blair operates across more than 30 offices worldwide, maintaining key strategic alliances with firms such as Allier Capital, BDA Partners, and Poalim Equity Ltd to deliver integrated solutions.

For Inner Circle Sports, the partnership offers an opportunity to leverage William Blair’s global reach and capital markets resources while maintaining the industry-specific focus that has made it a leader in sports finance.

PNGFA Enhances Commercial and Communications Expertise via OFC Seminar

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Courtney

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has successfully concluded the second module of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Football Management Certificate, a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering the leadership and operational capacity of football administrators in the region.

Held over two intensive days, the seminar focused on modernising the federation’s commercial practices and communication strategies to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.

Designed in collaboration with UEFA through the ‘UEFA together’ programme, the certification aims to equip football leaders with the practical skills necessary to excel in the competitive sports industry.

The PNGFA workshops provided staff with a platform to explore critical areas such as diversifying revenue streams, securing sustainable sponsorship, and refining internal and external communication protocols. By facilitating interactive sessions, the program encouraged participants to develop collaborative solutions that align with the federation’s broader organisational objectives.

Praising the engagement as a vital step in the federation’s development, PNGFA general secretary, Ahmjad Tekwie, said: “We’d like to thank OFC for delivering this workshop. It has been a valuable opportunity for our team, giving them a better understanding of commercial and communications and how these areas support the work of PNGFA.”

“The knowledge and skills they’ve gained will help strengthen our operations and ensure we’re all working together to move the federation forward,” Tekwie said.

The feedback from participants highlighted the immediate practical value of the training.

Noting the critical importance of communication within her role, PNGFA Just Play officer, Sonia Embahe, added: “Communication is something I really need to work on, especially in the role that I work in.”

“So always communicating and keeping everyone informed in what I do,” Embahe said.

Emphasising that the seminar is part of a broader commitment to building institutional strength across the Pacific, OFC head of member association services, Dudley Langelier, noted: “This seminar and the Certificate programme in general reflect OFC’s commitment to working closely with the member associations in strengthening the capabilities not only of their team members but as an organisation.”

“It provided the opportunity for the team to reflect, discuss and bring in new ideas in the areas of Commercial and Communication supporting PNGFA’s long-term development,” Langelier noted.

The completion of this seminar marks the midpoint of the PNGFA’s involvement in the Certificate programme, with the third module scheduled to take place in the coming months. The OFC is set to continue the regional rollout of the initiative with the Tonga Football Association in August.

TAB Renews Naming Rights Partnership for The TAB Eureka Through 2027

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Courtney

Harness Racing Australia (HRA) has officially confirmed that TAB will continue as the Naming Rights Partner of The TAB Eureka for an additional two-year term.

This renewal underscores a shared commitment to maintaining the event’s status as a marquee fixture on the Australian racing calendar. The partnership extension arrives as the event transitions into a new chapter, headlined by its move to an end-of-season Grand Final format scheduled for 21 November 2026 at Club Menangle.

Since its inception in 2023, The TAB Eureka has rapidly established itself as a premier showcase for Australia’s elite young pacers, utilising a slot-race format that has significantly elevated the sport’s profile.

Hailing the renewal as a vote of confidence in the sport’s strategic trajectory, HRA CEO, Richard Goodbody, said: “TAB backed the vision for The Eureka from the very beginning, and we’re delighted to continue this outstanding partnership for the next two years.”

“The TAB Eureka has quickly established itself as one of the premier events on the Australian racing calendar, and TAB’s ongoing support provides a strong foundation as we continue to grow the race and its profile,” Goodbody stated.

Emphasising the role the event now plays within the broader racing ecosystem, Tabcorp chief wagering officer, Michael Fitzsimons, added: “TAB has been part of the concept since the TAB Eureka’s inception and we’ve thrown our whole omnichannel experience into promoting and growing the race across the TAB App, TAB retail and SKY.”

“We take our role to invest in the industry very seriously and continuing our partnership with the TAB Eureka highlights our continued support of harness racing,” Fitzsimons said.

The news follows the recent announcement of the ten confirmed slot holders for the 2026 edition: Soho Standardbreds, Team Zav, Solid Earth, Cordina Racing, Western Jewel, Rampant Standardbreds, The Don, Go Racing, Harnesslink, and the Levarg Racing Group.

The involvement of these key stakeholders reflects the sustained industry enthusiasm for the event as it prepares for its new late-November timeslot.

The 2026 TAB Eureka Grand Final will take place at Club Menangle on Saturday, 21 November, with further announcements regarding horse selections and supplementary race-day initiatives expected in the coming months.

Australian Sailing Secures Funding Boost Following Top-Tier ‘Play Well’ Classification

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Courtney

Australian Sailing has been awarded an increase in participation funding from the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), a recognition solidified by the organisation achieving the highest possible ‘Play Well’ Classification Level of 10 out of 10.

The announcement comes as part of a national $21.75 million investment package distributed among 58 sporting organisations to drive grassroots engagement and improve the quality of experiences for participants, volunteers, and coaches.

As one of 36 sports nationally to receive a funding uplift, Australian Sailing is set to channel the investment into its newly launched Participation Plan for Sailing in Australia.

Lauding the achievement as a testament to the wider community’s efforts, Australian Sailing CEO, Malcolm Page OAM, said: “To be one of the 36 sports to receive an increase in Play Well funding, while also achieving the highest possible classification, is a fantastic outcome for sailing.”

“This result reflects the collective effort of our Clubs, Class Associations, Discover Sailing Centres, volunteers and staff around the country,” Page said.

Noting the broader significance of the Play Well initiative in strengthening the national sports system, ASC CEO, Kieren Perkins OAM, added: “At its core, Play Well is about making sport a place where everyone feels welcome.”

“This investment helps sports deliver the kind of experiences that keep people coming back.

“Strong participation is essential to a thriving sport system. By investing in a diverse range of sports we’re building broader, more inclusive communities that benefit all Australians,” Perkins said.

This roadmap is designed to increase accessibility, flexibility, and inclusivity within the sport, setting a clear trajectory for growth through to 2032 and beyond. The plan focuses on a unified approach between the national body, local clubs, Class Associations, and Discover Sailing Centres to encourage more Australians to engage with the sport in diverse ways.

The funding increase follows an rigorous assessment process in which Australian Sailing achieved a final adjusted score of 88.25 per cent in the ASC’s Play Well Investment Assessment.

The evaluation reviewed the organisation across six key metrics, including participant diversity, system contribution, and stakeholder engagement.

Notably, Australian Sailing performed exceptionally well in the ‘Quality of Experience’ category, ranking eighth among all eligible sports based on direct participant feedback.

Victorian Government Backs Sports Tech Pioneer HITIQ in High-Skilled Job Expansion

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Courtney

The Victorian Government has announced a strategic partnership with ASX-listed sports technology company HITIQ to expand its advanced manufacturing and research facility in South Melbourne.

This investment is set to bolster the state’s position as a global leader in sports innovation, resulting in the creation of 26 new high-skilled jobs and the preservation of 20 existing roles within the organisation.

The expansion will focus on accelerating the product development, manufacturing, and R&D capabilities of HITIQ’s groundbreaking “smart mouthguard” technology. Developed through more than a decade of research and over $30 million in capital investment, the device utilises sophisticated sensor data and AI-driven analytics to monitor head impacts in real-time.

By providing timely and objective data, the technology is revolutionising concussion management, a critical health concern within professional and community sports alike.

HITIQ’s impact is already felt at the highest levels of global sport, with its technology currently utilised by major organisations including the AFL, AFLW, NRL, and the English Premier League.

Beyond the elite level, the company is aggressively expanding its footprint into amateur, community-level, and youth sports programs. Given that an estimated 100,000 concussions occur annually in Australia, the integration of this technology into grassroots sports is viewed as a vital step in mitigating long-term neurological risks for young athletes.

The initiative reinforces Victoria’s status as the nation’s premier hub for sports technology. With the state currently home to 39 per cent of all Australian sports tech businesses and accounting for nearly half of the nation’s total jobs in the sector, HITIQ’s growth underscores the ongoing commercialisation of local expertise. Following successful entries into international markets including the UK and Canada, HITIQ remains a central player in Victoria’s thriving innovation ecosystem.

Adelaide 36ers Extend Major Partnership with SKG Services

Posted on July 3, 2026 by Courtney

The Adelaide 36ers have officially announced the renewal of their major partnership with SKG Services for the next two NBL seasons. This agreement continues a high-profile collaboration that began ahead of the NBL25 campaign, reinforcing a shared commitment to long-term success and organisational excellence.

As part of the renewed deal, SKG Services will maintain its significant branding presence across the club, appearing prominently on the front of the 36ers’ away jerseys and selected official club apparel.

Furthermore, SKG Services will retain its position as the club’s Official Coaches Partner, further embedding the brand into the team’s daily operations and on-court identity.

Commenting on the partnership, Adelaide 36ers CEO, Nic Barbato, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with SKG Services as we head into NBL27.”

“Since joining the Adelaide 36ers family, SKG Services has been an outstanding partner and a strong supporter of our vision for the future of the club. As we continue to build momentum both on and off the court, partnerships like this play a critical role in helping us deliver for our members, fans and community,” Barbato stated.

Highlighting the synergy between the two brands, SKG services owner and managing director, George Manoussakis, added: “We are proud to continue our Major Partnership with the Adelaide 36ers for the next two seasons.”

“For SKG Services, this partnership is about more than brand presence, it is about continuing to support an organisation that shares our commitment to performance, community and long-term success,” Manoussakis said.

Founded in 1975 by Steve and Kathy Manoussakis, SKG Services has evolved from a family-owned operation in New South Wales into a national leader in commercial cleaning, security, maintenance, and construction.

Marking its 50th year of operations in 2026, the company now employs over 3,500 staff across eight national offices, providing a robust operational foundation that mirrors the 36ers’ professional standards.