Historic Unification of Australian Athletics and Little Athletics Australia Complete

Australian Athletics and Little Athletics Australia have officially signed final contracts to complete their national unification.

The agreement, finalised in Melbourne by presidents Jane Flemming OAM and Sherrie Boulter, brings to an end decades of structural fragmentation and creates a single, cohesive pathway for the sport.

By merging the grassroots engine of Little Athletics with the elite and high-performance structures of Australian Athletics, the sport is positioned to maximise commercial opportunities and athlete retention.

Commenting on the agreement,Flemming, said: “This unification sets athletics up for long-term success both in keeping younger athletes in our sport as they mature and creating better links between families, clubs, officials, and volunteers.” 

A Unified Governance Structure

Under the new arrangement, the unified body, operating as Australian Athletics, will serve as the sole National Member Federation recognised by World Athletics, World Para Athletics, and the Australian Sports Commission.

Key Leadership Changes:

• Jane Flemming OAM will continue as president of the unified Australian Athletics.
• Sherrie Boulter will step down as Little Athletics Australia president to join the Australian Athletics board as a Director, ensuring Little Athletics’ 60-year heritage is represented at the highest level of governance.
• The unification will formally commence on 20 April 2026, with both organisations integrating into a single workforce at Athletics House at Lakeside Stadium, Melbourne.

Coles Remains Naming-Rights Partner

In addition, it was confirmed that Coles will remain the naming-rights partner of Coles Little Athletics. Since 2017, the partnership has been a primary driver of growth, supporting more than 90,000 participants across 700 clubs and centres.

The agreement ensures that the iconic Little Athletics brand and its community-focused initiatives—including equipment grants and fresh fruit donations—will be preserved and enhanced within the new national framework.

Streamlining the Pathway to Brisbane 2032

The first practical demonstration of this unified vision will occur next month in Brisbane. For the first time, the Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships (ALAC) (12–14 April) and the Australian Athletics Junior Championships (15–20 April) will be held side-by-side at the Queensland State Athletics Centre (QSAC).

State and Territory Member Associations will continue to lead local delivery, supported by a national network of over 6,000 coaches.

The transition also includes the establishment of a Little Athletics Trust to hold residual funds, ensuring ongoing investment specifically for grassroots development.

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