Ministry of Sport

New Zealand Government Commits Funding to ‘100 Years of Unity through Sport’ Program

Posted on July 16, 2026 by Courtney

The New Zealand Government has announced an investment from the Events Boost Fund to support the “100 Years of Unity through Sport” program, a cultural and sporting campaign marking a century of bilateral relations between India and New Zealand.

This initiative is designed to commemorate the enduring connections between the two nations by hosting a series of major international sporting fixtures throughout 2026. The program underscores the role of athletics in fostering mutual respect and diplomatic ties, with celebrations culminating in a landmark month of events across New Zealand this November.

Emphasising the broader significance of the milestone, Sport and Recreation Minister, Mark Mitchell, said: “Marking 100 years of sporting ties is a significant milestone in the relationship between India and New Zealand.”

“It speaks to the power of sport to unite nations, foster mutual respect, and create lasting friendships,” Minister Mitchell said.

Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Louise Upston, highlighted the economic and cultural dimensions of the government’s commitment.

“India and New Zealand share a special relationship, and I’m proud the Government is investing in this cultural and sporting campaign.”

“We look forward to welcoming the teams and fans who will experience the best our country has to offer.

“Events like this give our economy a real boost and continue to strengthen the ties between our countries,” Minister Upston said.

The sporting schedule features a diverse range of international talent, including the Indian Men’s Football team and national teams for Individual and Mixed Pairs Bowls. These fixtures will join the previously announced Indian cricket tour, which serves as a foundation for the wider program.

The investment from the Events Boost Fund is intended to ensure the high-quality delivery of the program, supporting logistical requirements and enhancing the fan experience for both local and international spectators.

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Basketball Australia Enters Four-Year Strategic Partnership with Chinese Basketball Association

Posted on July 16, 2026 by Courtney

Basketball Australia has signed a landmark four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chinese Basketball Association.

This agreement, formalised following a successful two-game series between the Australian Opals and China in Melbourne, establishes a framework designed to enhance high-performance outcomes for both nations. The partnership aims to accelerate the development of elite players, coaches, referees, and performance staff through the sharing of best practices and technical expertise.

A Partnership that aligns Two Big Basketball Programs Globally

Commenting on the agreement, Basketball Australia CEO, Matt Scriven, said: “This is a significant partnership for Australian basketball and the first of its kind between Basketball Australia and the Chinese Basketball Association.”

“It creates a clear pathway for regular high-performance exchanges across our men’s and women’s programs, while also opening up meaningful opportunities for player development, coaching, officiating and junior national teams,” Scriven said.

Scriven noted that this holistic approach is essential for long-term growth.

“China is an important and successful basketball nation and this agreement gives both countries the opportunity to share expertise, build stronger relationships and create new experiences for athletes and staff at every level of the game.”

Beyond the scope of high-performance development, the MOU serves as a multifaceted commercial and diplomatic instrument. The agreement provides a dedicated platform to explore joint ventures in broadcast initiatives and commercial partnerships, effectively broadening the reach of basketball within Australia, China, and across the wider international market.

This MOU marks a new chapter in cross-border sporting relations, leveraging the established popularity of basketball in both regions to drive professional standards and audience engagement.

Louis Vuitton Named Official Supplier and Branded Licensee for FIFA World Cup 2026™

Posted on July 16, 2026July 16, 2026 by Courtney

Louis Vuitton has solidified its long-standing partnership with FIFA, being officially appointed as the Official Supplier and Branded Licensee for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

As part of this collaboration, the luxury fashion house will design and present a bespoke trophy trunk, which will serve as the centrepiece during the tournament’s final. The trunk, handcrafted by artisans at the historic Asnières-sur-Seine workshops near Paris, continues a tradition established in 2010 of providing a prestigious, secure vessel for the world’s most coveted sporting prize.

The 2026 trophy trunk reflects Louis Vuitton’s signature craftsmanship, featuring the iconic monogram canvas, gold-plated brass hardware, and hand-painted golden “V” detailing, which symbolises both “victory” and “Vuitton.” The interior is lined with light beige leather, incorporating a commemorative FIFA and Louis Vuitton partnership logo.

Sharing the importance of the tradition, FIFA chief business officer, Romy Gai, said: “Louis Vuitton brings a unique blend of heritage, craftsmanship and prestige to the FIFA World Cup.

“The Official Trophy is the most coveted prize in world football and it is only fitting that it is carried in a Louis Vuitton trunk,” Gai said.

Highlighting the enduring nature of the collaboration, Louis Vuitton CEO & chairman, Pietro Beccari, noted: “For over a decade, Louis Vuitton and FIFA have shared an unwavering commitment to excellence, bound by a shared belief in sport’s power to inspire and bring people together.”

“We are thrilled to continue this partnership for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

“At its heart stands the world’s most coveted trophy – a symbol of dedication, collective ambition and the ultimate celebration of victory,” Beccari said.

In addition to the presentation trunk, Louis Vuitton is leveraging its status as an Official Branded Licensee to release a limited-edition collection of trunks inspired by the official design. This collection includes the Coffret 8 Montres, the Cotteville 16 Montres, and the Malle Courrier Lozine 110, each featuring the monogram canvas, a hand-painted FIFA World Cup logo, and the signature golden “V”.

This agreement reinforces the “Victory travels in Louis Vuitton” philosophy that has defined the brand’s association with elite global sport since 2010. 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!.

Melbourne Storm Targets $160 Million Capital Injection from Global Investors

Posted on July 16, 2026July 15, 2026 by Courtney

The Melbourne Storm has entered advanced negotiations with international parties regarding a substantial equity stake in the NRL powerhouse, a move that could value the club at $200 million.

As the organisation looks to capitalise on the NRL’s recently announced $5.3 billion broadcast rights deal, chairman Matt Tripp has confirmed that the club is seeking a strategic partner to drive future growth. While interest has been expressed by three potential investors, including a Hong Kong-based hedge fund, Tripp emphasised that the current ownership group has no intention of exiting the club entirely.

The proposed deal could see a new investor secure a significant interest in the club, with one consortium reportedly targeting a majority 80 per cent stake. Should a transaction of this magnitude proceed, it would elevate the Storm to a valuation comparable with the Brisbane Broncos and Collingwood, solidifying their position as one of the most commercially potent brands in Australian sport.

The Storm’s current ownership structure comprises five co-owners, including Tripp, Bart Campbell, Tom Carroll, Gerry Ryan, and Brett Ralph, who have held the club’s fortunes for several years.

“We are in negotiations with a number of parties in acquiring a stake in the Storm.”

“There is no world in which we would sell out of the Storm completely.

“We have maintained for some time we have been looking for the right strategic partner to help us drive the club forward.

“There are several parties left we’re speaking to.

“They are all really well credentialled and would all add enormous value.

“We will either choose to partner with one of them or we will continue on with our current shareholder structure,” Tripp stated.

Tripp underscored his personal commitment to the Storm, confirming his intention to remain as chairman for at least another five years, regardless of changes to the shareholding model. He noted that the renewed interest from overseas corporations is a direct result of the league’s burgeoning international appeal and financial stability.

“With the new TV rights deal, there is a view the NRL clubs should get stronger, so there is a bit for us to think about.”

“We’re now in a bomb-proof competition compared to others around the world off the back of the brilliant broadcast deal done by Peter V’landys and Andrew Abdo,” Tripp added.

The negotiation process is expected to span up to four months as the club evaluates its options for a partner capable of accelerating its commercial objectives. By integrating new capital, the Storm aim to leverage the league’s broadcast bonanza to strengthen their position as rugby league’s most consistent performer over the past two decades.

Essendon Football Club Appoints Business Leader Sally Curtain to Board of Directors

Posted on July 16, 2026July 15, 2026 by Courtney

The Essendon Football Club has appointmented Sally Curtain to its Board of Directors. Curtain, a lifelong supporter of the club, brings an extensive professional background spanning business advocacy, education, local government, and public sector management to the boardroom.

Currently serving as the CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Curtain’s appointment is seen as a key step in guiding the club through a pivotal period of growth and organisational change.

Essendon president, Andrew Welsh, lauded the appointment, noting that Curtain’s professional trajectory aligns precisely with the club’s long-term vision.

“Sally is a proven transformational leader with a track record all Boards would love to have in the room.”

“Her experience across government, education and industry gives the Club a genuine depth of governance expertise and a clear understanding of how to lead large, complex organisations through change.

“These skills will be invaluable for us as we continue our work at Windy Hill including funding requirements, growing our education platforms across the Club as well as attracting and retaining corporate partners,” Welsh said.

Curtain’s resume includes significant executive leadership roles, notably as the CEO of the Bendigo Kangan Institute, and senior positions within the Department of Justice, the City of Casey, and VicRoads. According to Welsh, her ability to turn strategic ambition into tangible outcomes, ranging from infrastructure delivery to the modernisation of community-focused organisations, was the deciding factor for the Board.

Reflecting on her appointment, Curtain expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the club’s strategic trajectory.

“I’ve had a chance to meet almost all of the Directors now and I feel really privileged to be joining them, in all honesty.”

“They’re a very united group and I feel I can make a really good contribution. I’ve had a very diverse career as a regulator, a director in many organisations across disability and education services, economic development, major community infrastructure, sporting fields, you name it,” Curtain said.

Curtain also addressed the club’s external environment, noting her confidence in the board’s internal stability and focus.

“What stood out to me most during my decision making process was that whilst there has been intense commentary about the Club externally, internally I was impressed with how the Club has been handling that to remain strong and prioritise long term, strategic decision making.”

“That’s the right mindset for members and supporters.” Curtain will fill a casual vacancy on the Board and will stand for re-election ahead of the Annual General Meeting in December,” she added.

Jennie Sager appointed to Baseball NSW Board

Posted on July 16, 2026July 15, 2026 by Courtney

Baseball NSW has officially announced the appointment of Jennie Sager to its Board of Directors, bringing over two decades of global leadership experience in sport, media, technology, and entertainment to the organisation.

Sager, who has held high-profile roles including CEO of the Women’s National Basketball League and director of Content Partnerships for Japan and Asia Pacific at Twitter, is expected to play a critical role in executing the “Play Ball NSW” strategic plan for 2026–2029.

Her portfolio of experience also encompasses senior brand and consumer marketing leadership at Nextdoor and an extensive background in executive production for networks such as Nine Entertainment, MTV, and National Geographic.

The appointment comes as Baseball NSW seeks to aggressively scale its commercial partnerships, improve audience engagement, and broaden participation pathways. Sager’s expertise in global brand strategy and content creation is viewed as a vital asset for the organisation’s stated goal of increasing the visibility of the sport through professionalised storytelling. She currently serves on the boards of the City Recital Hall Sydney and the Australian Women in Music Awards, bringing a broad cross-sector governance perspective to the baseball boardroom.

Welcoming the appointment, Baseball NSW chair, Sue Cunningham, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Jennie to the Baseball NSW Board.”

“Jennie brings an exceptional combination of strategic leadership, commercial expertise and global marketing experience.

“Her experience will be invaluable as we deliver our Play Ball NSW strategy and create more opportunities for people to discover and enjoy baseball,” Cunningham said.

Sager, who was selected following a competitive, multi-stage recruitment process, highlighted the latent growth potential she sees within the New South Wales baseball community.

“Sport has an incredible ability to bring people together, build confidence and strengthen communities, and baseball has enormous potential to grow even further across New South Wales.”

“I’m excited to join the Baseball NSW Board at such an important time for the sport. There is a passionate baseball community, a clear vision for the future and a real opportunity to introduce more people to the game,” Sager stated.

This appointment marks the first time Baseball NSW has utilised the Nomination Committee provisions integrated into its Constitution in 2023, a move designed to professionalise the board selection process and attract high-calibre candidates from outside the traditional baseball ecosystem.

The search process was facilitated by independent panel members, including Sports NSW CEO Stuart Hodge, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to rigorous governance standards as it prepares for the next phase of its growth.

Capel Sound Netball Courts Recognised for Sustainable Innovation in Australian First

Posted on July 15, 2026 by Courtney

The redevelopment of the Truemans Road netball courts in Capel Sound has secured the Innovation in Parks, Sport and Recreation award at the Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA) VIC/TAS 2026 Annual Region Awards of Excellence.

The project, delivered through a partnership between the Mornington Peninsula Shire and APT Asia Pacific, is the first in Australia to utilise recycled household paint technology within a professional-grade sports court surface. By using recovered materials into the Laykold® court system, the project demonstrates a high-impact application of circular-economy principles to community sporting infrastructure.

The initiative utilises APT Asia Pacific’s exclusive collaboration with Paintback, Australia’s national paint stewardship scheme, to divert waste from landfill. Through a rigorous research and development process, recovered paint is repurposed into the latex backing of artificial turf products and the hard-court systems deployed at the Capel Sound facility.

The installation, which features approximately 22 per cent recycled and renewable materials, successfully diverted the equivalent of 288 one-litre paint tins from landfill. The project was managed by head contractor iDwala, with installation executed by Grand Slam Surfaces.

Expressing pride in the project’s achievement, noting that the recognition highlights the potential for creative environmental solutions in municipal infrastructure, Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor, Stephen Batty, said: “Congratulations to the teams involved. This project shows what’s possible when we find a creative way to give new life to a waste product, that would otherwise end up in landfill.”

“The award recognises the vision, collaboration and commitment that is poured into countless projects across the Mornington Peninsula,” Batty stated.

Beyond its environmental credentials, the redevelopment was prioritised for its functional impact on the Capel Sound Netball Club, which supports hundreds of players each weekend.

The new surface offers enhanced safety and longevity, with testing revealing that the recycled-paint system provides roughly three times the tensile strength of the original Laykold formula. This ensures that the courts remain durable under the heavy usage demands of community sport.

This project serves as a model for how councils, manufacturers, and contractors can align sustainability goals with operational performance.

Netflix Advances ‘Event Strategy’ With First MLB Home Run Derby Broadcast

Posted on July 15, 2026 by Courtney

Netflix is marking an expansion of its live sports portfolio by hosting its first broadcast of the MLB Home Run Derby in Philadelphia.

The streamer is utilising the high-profile event as a canvas for its signature cinematic production style, deploying a 28-camera setup, including the advanced Muybridge Horizon system and untethered drones, to capture the action at Citizens Bank Park.

Noting the deliberate approach to the broadcast, Netflix’s VP of production, nonfiction and live, Jonathan Mussman, said: “We’re incredibly excited to bring the world a brand-new look to this marquee Major League Baseball event.”

“The Home Run Derby is pure entertainment, the perfect, high-octane gateway for both diehard fans and newcomers to witness the jaw-dropping talent of MLB’s elite.

“While we may be a newer player in the baseball-broadcasting lineup, we aren’t holding back.

“We are blending the classic, high-stakes drama of the Derby with a fresh, cinematic perspective, giving our members a front-row seat to history,” Mussman said.

Mussman further underscored the value of this casting decision.

“You can’t tell the story of the home run without the man who hit more of them than anyone else in human history.”

“Barry’s 762 career blasts give him instant, undeniable authority, but his value to our broadcast goes even deeper.

“He knows the toll it takes on a swing, the strategy behind the timing, and what it feels like when the entire stadium is waiting for a 500-ft. moonshot.

“Bringing that level of elite, firsthand insight to our audience elevates the entire narrative,” he added

Mussman then contextualised this within the streamer’s wider ambitions.

“This year’s Derby is another milestone in a strategy we’ve deliberately been building: an event strategy, not a sports strategy.”

“The Derby matters because it’s another one of those ‘water cooler’ events, and it keeps building our credibility and our muscle in the live-event space,” he concluded.

The production strategy leans heavily into storytelling, incorporating lounge-style studio sets on the field to create a premium, party-like atmosphere. To anchor this narrative, Netflix has secured baseball legend Barry Bonds to join the on-air team, providing a high level of specialist insight.

Brisbane Open House Returns with Ambitious 2026 Program Featuring Iconic Sporting Venues

Posted on July 15, 2026July 15, 2026 by Courtney

The 17th annual Brisbane Open House has unveiled its most important program to date, featuring 93 buildings across Greater Brisbane and a record-breaking 16 private homes.

Scheduled for the weekend of 18 and 19 July, this year’s event has significantly expanded ticket availability to accommodate demand, offering the public rare, behind-the-scenes access to government institutions, commercial landmarks, and heritage sites.

A major drawcard for the 2026 edition is the inclusion of two premier sporting facilities: the National Rugby Training Centre at Ballymore and the Gabba. Access to the Gabba provides a poignant “last look” for visitors, as the venue is slated for a major urban precinct redevelopment following the 2032 Olympic Games.

Meanwhile, the National Rugby Training Centre, elite home of the Queensland Reds and Wallaroos, will offer guided tours of its world-class aquatic recovery centre and gymnasium, areas that remain strictly off-limits to the public under normal circumstances.

The program was officially launched by the Governor of Queensland, Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, at the new Glasshouse Theatre within the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Brisbane Open House Co-Chair Malcolm Middleton highlighted that the event’s 2026 scale reflects the city’s rapid evolution.

“All eyes are on Brisbane right now – the city is transforming at pace as we count down to 2032.”

“There is no better way to experience the transformation than exploring the buildings that have shaped Brisbane’s past and are shaping its future, and hearing from the architects behind them,” Middleton said.

City of Brisbane Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner, noted that the event serves as a vital reminder of the city’s character.

“It’s a city full of history, character and stories waiting to be discovered. Every building has something to tell us about who we are, where we’ve come from and how we’re shaping Brisbane’s future,” Schrinner commented.

The 2026 program introduces over 30 new additions, including architectural showpieces like 205 North Quay, 360 Queen Street, and the residential tower at 443 Queen Street.

In concusion, the event features immersive experiences such as UAP Foundry tours, guided walks regarding flood resilience, and public conversations celebrating the 20th anniversary of GOMA.

Following a highly successful 2025 event that recorded over 42,000 visits, the 2026 edition reinforces Brisbane Open House’s status as a flagship cultural fixture, providing a unique lens through which residents and visitors can engage with the capital’s architectural identity.

On Location Reveals LA28 Olympic Hospitality Packages

Posted on July 15, 2026 by Courtney

To commemorate the two-year countdown to the Opening Ceremony of the LA28 Olympic Games, official hospitality provider On Location has launched a wave of ticket-inclusive hospitality packages.

These new offerings are designed to provide spectators with elevated access to some of the most anticipated events of the Games, including Equestrian, Diving, Athletics (Track & Field), Beach Volleyball, and Golf.

The newly released inventory includes the Beach Volleyball Premium Lounge at Alamitos Beach, featuring 360-degree views of the court, and the Equestrian Signature Lounge at Santa Anita Park, which offers refined cuisine and exceptional field-of-play vantage points.

For Athletics enthusiasts, Loge Boxes at the historic LA Memorial Coliseum provide a private, open-air experience paired with access to a vibrant, climate-controlled leisure hub.

Additionally, On Location has introduced the Hospitality Pavilion concept, providing a centralized, venue-proximate hospitality environment for guests at multiple sports clusters, including the Valley, Carson, Long Beach, and DTLA zones.

Emphasising the organisation’s focus on personalising the spectator experience, president of On Location, Paul Caine, said: “These newly released packages span some of the most exciting sports at the Olympic Games and are crafted to give fans unprecedented proximity to the competition.”

“From curated lounges and private suites to the new ‘Follow My Team’ concept for Men’s & Women’s Basketball, we’re designing hospitality experiences that go far beyond a ticket; they’re immersive journeys that make every moment of the Olympic Games feel personal, effortless and extraordinary,” Caine said.

Building on these releases, On Location has announced that additional packages will become available on 28 July, most notably the “Follow My Team” concept for basketball. This offering allows fans to guarantee hospitality access to three preliminary rounds and one quarter-final match for their chosen men’s or women’s national team, eliminating the uncertainty of schedule draws. The available country lists for these packages encompass major basketball nations, including Australia, the USA, Spain, Japan, and Canada, among others.

As the official and secure source for LA28 hospitality, On Location continues to urge fans to utilise official channels to avoid the risks associated with third-party marketplaces.

These packages remain on sale through the duration of the Games, with further releases—including hospitality for Badminton, Cricket, and Rhythmic Gymnastics—scheduled for later this year. By leveraging partnerships with global brands like Visa, On Location is positioning its hospitality suite as the primary avenue for supporters seeking guaranteed access to the LA28 Olympic experience.

Vaseline Named Official Nipple Protector of the TCS Sydney Marathon

Posted on July 15, 2026July 15, 2026 by Courtney

TCS Sydney Marathon has announce that Vaseline has been appointed as the event’s “Official Nipple Protector,” launching “The Nipple Sponsorship” campaign to address the prevalent issue of chafing among endurance athletes.

With 40,000 participants expected to compete in the 42.195-kilometre race on 30 August 2026, the partnership aims to provide a tangible solution to “runner’s nipple” and general friction-related discomfort, which research indicates affects 92 per cent of marathon participants.

The campaign is underpinned by research from Edelman DXI, which revealed that 67 per cent of marathoners have experienced bleeding due to chafing, with one in three runners specifically reporting nipple irritation. As part of the sponsorship, Vaseline will provide its iconic petroleum jelly products at the TCS Sydney Marathon Running Show and maintain a presence on-course, offering runners on-the-go support throughout their race-day challenge.

Noting that the campaign serves to formalise a common practice already prevalent among the running community, global brand director at Vaseline, Nathalia Amadeu, said: “The running community has always built a culture around sharing what works.”

“With 3 in 5 marathon runners already using Vaseline to help reduce chafing,

“‘The Nipple Sponsorship’ recognises a hack runners have trusted for decades.

“It’s about showing up for runners in the moments that matter, so they can focus on the finish line, not friction,” Amadeu stated.

Highligting the value of the partnership, commercial director of the TCS Sydney Marathon, Kent Lunney, added: “The best partnerships start with genuine relevance, chafing is one of the most common challenges our participants face, so naming Vaseline the Official Nipple Protector of the TCS Sydney Marathon is equal parts good fun and genuine service to our runners.”

“We are proud to welcome a partner of this calibre to Australia’s largest marathon and to back it with a fun campaign that resonates with the running community,” Lunney added.

To coincide with the campaign, Vaseline is launching the new All-Over Body Balm Stick—a portable, mess-free product designed for mid-race reapplication.

This innovation is being supported by a retail exclusive at Chemist Warehouse, with promotional discounts available from 22 July through 15 September 2026.

Australian Sportstech Sector Hits A$7.11 Billion Milestone as Global Momentum Accelerates

Posted on July 15, 2026 by Courtney

Australia’s sportstech sector has reported a period of acceleration, with annual revenue surging to $7.11 billion in FY2026.

According to the Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN) fifth annual Sports Innovation Report, the sector’s growth rate has climbed to 16 per cent, up from 10 per cent in the previous fiscal year. Alongside this financial expansion, the industry has seen a 6 per cent increase in employment, now supporting 20,604 roles across the country.

The census identifies 924 companies nationwide, with a significant concentration of market power held by a cohort of 115 high-performing businesses. These industry leaders are responsible for generating 89 per cent of the sector’s total revenue, or $6.30 billion, and 74 per cent of its total employment. Companies such as Catapult Sports, PMY Group, Bodd, VALD, and Champion Data are cited as primary drivers of this growth, successfully positioning themselves as both domestic market leaders and formidable competitors in global markets.

Noting that while the APAC region comprises only 10 per cent of global sportstech activity, Australia’s reputation as a specialised innovation hub is strengthening, ASTN chair, Dr Martin Schlegel, said: “Australia’s sportstech sector is experiencing sustained growth and reaching unprecedented momentum on the global stage.”

“We are seeing a growing number of fast-scaling companies emerge – companies that are successfully competing in global markets while building strong market positions at home,” Dr Schlegel said.

Despite this success, the report highlights a challenge: a growing tendency for Australian startups to adopt a “global-first” approach. Dr Schlegel explained that many startups struggle to secure early domestic traction due to difficulties engaging with local sporting organisations and corporates.

“Australia has the capability to be a leading testbed for sportstech innovation, yet many startups still struggle to secure early domestic traction.”

As a result, more companies are seeking validation and scaling overseas first, meaning Australia is often missing the opportunity to support and benefit from early-stage growth,” Dr Schlegel noted.

Geographically, the industry remains heavily concentrated along the eastern seaboard, with Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland accounting for 88 per cent of all sportstech businesses.

Victoria continues to lead the national ecosystem, with Melbourne contributing 39 per cent of total sector revenue.

However, Queensland is rapidly rising as a key hub, supported by strategic investment ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, with forecasts suggesting it will overtake New South Wales in business numbers and employment by 2028.

Yambla Pavilion Upgrade Delivers Modernised Football Infrastructure to Yarra Community

Posted on July 15, 2026 by Courtney

The Yarra City Council has officially unveiled the newly upgraded Yambla Pavilion, marking a significant investment in the region’s grassroots football infrastructure.

Designed to support the rising demand for high-quality sporting facilities, the modernised hub features four all-gender changerooms, upgraded public amenities, a social space, a functional kiosk, and dedicated referee and first aid rooms. A standout feature of the development is a striking laser-cut mural created by Melbourne-based artist Angharad Neal-Williams, which adds a distinct cultural element to the facility’s viewing deck.

This project was designed to foster greater inclusivity, particularly for women and girls in the game. By providing modernised, fit-for-purpose change facilities, the pavilion aims to encourage more participants to engage with football as players, officials, volunteers, and supporters.

The project is the result of a coordinated multi-level government partnership, demonstrating a shared commitment to regional sporting development.

The total investment was supported by $2.25 million from the Australian Government through the Thriving Suburbs Program, $500,000 from the Victorian Government via the World Game Facilities Fund, and an investment of up to $2.6 million from the Yarra City Council.

Highlighting the social value of the new facility during the opening ceremony, Yarra City Council Mayor, Stephen Jolly, said: “Yambla Pavilion is more than just a building. It’s a place where skills are developed, and friendships are formed.”

“And hopefully, it’ll be where our future Socceroos and Matildas can begin their journey,” Jolly said.

The facility was officially opened by the Member for Cooper, the Hon Ged Kearney MP, who joined community members to celebrate the project’s completion.

The pavilion serves as a piece of infrastructure for local clubs, providing the necessary environment to nurture sporting talent and strengthen community ties.

Picklr ANZ Secures JOOLA as Major Equipment Partner to Accelerate Regional Growth

Posted on July 15, 2026 by Courtney

Picklr ANZ has announced a multi-year partnership with global pickleball equipment leader JOOLA, appointing the brand as its Major Equipment Partner and P-Series Sponsor.

This alliance will see JOOLA’s paddles, professional equipment, and specialised coaching support integrated across The Picklr ANZ’s rapidly expanding network of premium indoor pickleball facilities throughout Australia and New Zealand. The partnership aligns with the sport’s massive surge in popularity, with recent data from the Australian Sports Commission’s AusPlay survey indicating that participation numbers have soared to over 155,000 as of April 2025.

The collaboration launches in tandem with the opening of The Picklr’s flagship Australian location in Cronulla, New South Wales, which features 11 premium indoor courts. This site marks the commencement of an ambitious rollout strategy, with plans to establish 50 dedicated indoor clubs across the region. Under the terms of the agreement, JOOLA will become the featured paddle brand in all Picklr ANZ pro shops.

Members will gain exclusive access to the ‘Racquet Pass’ demo program, allowing them to test the high-performance range in-club before committing to a purchase. Furthermore, JOOLA will serve as the exclusive equipment partner for the P-Series, the franchise’s proprietary coaching and player-development pathway designed to transition participants from beginner clinics to competitive league play.

Commenting on the partnership, general manager of The Picklr ANZ and a professional player on the PPA Tour, Lara Giltinan, said: “Picklr members and guests will have the opportunity to play and train with equipment used at the highest level of the sport.”

“As a pro player, I can attest to the importance of playing with top quality paddles and equipment and now every Picklr patron will have the chance to do so when playing at our facilities. JOOLA shares our commitment to raising the standard of pickleball in Australia and New Zealand, and having them alongside us from day one sets the tone for everything we are building,” Giltinan said.

Echoing the sentiment, and noting the shared vision for the sport’s development, GM of JOOLA Australia Pacific, Dean Short, added: “The Picklr is setting a new benchmark for indoor Pickleball across Australia and New Zealand.”

“As one of the world’s leading Pickleball brands, JOOLA is proud to partner with The Picklr to equip its premium facilities and support its players and coaches as the game grows.

“We are excited to work together to expand the sport and make it more accessible across the region,” Short added.

The partnership will be highlighted through a series of demo days and coaching activations during the grand openings of new Picklr clubs, further cementing the franchise’s position as a premier operator in the Oceania market.

Swimming Australia Announces Strategic Overhaul to Secure Long-Term Athlete Contracts

Posted on July 15, 2026 by Courtney

Swimming Australia has unveiled a roadmap aimed at transforming the sport’s commercial landscape as the organisation prepares for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

Central to this vision is the introduction of long-term paid contracts for elite athletes and coaches within the next three years, a move designed to provide financial stability and professionalise the career pathways of Australia’s top swimmers. This policy shift seeks to counteract the allure of alternative, high-incentive events like the controversial Enhanced Games, ensuring that the nation’s premier talent remains committed to the integrity of the Olympic movement.

The decision follows public discourse regarding the financial disparities faced by elite swimmers. Olympic gold medallist Cam McEvoy recently brought these challenges into focus, arguing that the rise of commercially backed, drug-inclusive events poses a direct threat to the traditional sporting model.

“When the only major opportunity of income is the Enhanced Games, a swimming competition that promotes drug use, that is an issue for our sport.”

“It’s not the path I want to take,” McEvoy stated.

Swimming Australia CEO, Rob Woodhouse, who has championed the transition, emphasised that the goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem that rewards performance while expanding the organisation’s reach into grassroots and community sectors.

“The likes of Cam McEvoy and Kyle Chalmers have been in the Australian team for a long time.”

“They’ve been at the top of their game, but they haven’t made a lot from the sport, besides a few individual endorsements,” Woodhouse said.

He further identified a need for structural reform in the learn-to-swim industry, noting that after a century of operation, the governing body is finally seeking to align itself with the broader swimming sector to improve curriculum standards and participant retention.

“We need to commercialise our sport better, and to do that, we need to be engaging those community levels, getting more kids in and retaining them,” Woodhouse added,

This pivot is designed to build on Australia’s recent dominance in international competition, ensuring that athlete welfare and coach support are prioritised alongside commercial growth.