QSport and Griffith University Forge Two-Year Partnership to Advance Women in Sport

QSport has announced a landmark two-year partnership with Griffith University, extending through June 2027, to strengthen gender equity, leadership, and participation in sport across Queensland.

As part of the agreement, Griffith University becomes Naming Sponsor of the Queensland Sport Awards’ Athlete of the Year Award, reinforcing the profile of the state’s premier sporting recognition while underlining Griffith’s commitment to athlete development, high-performance pathways, and sport research.

A central element of the collaboration is the Women in Sport Leadership Series, a suite of networking and professional development events designed to spotlight Queensland’s women leaders in sport. The series will also actively engage male allies who champion gender equity, creating opportunities for broader cultural change and fostering inclusive practices in the sector.

Commenting on the partnership, QSport CEO, Shantel Netzler, said: “This partnership with Griffith University is a powerful step forward. By combining our networks, insight-capabilities and shared values, we will shine a spotlight on the inspirational women leading sport in Queensland—and crucially, we will build meaningful systems to lift and support the next generation of leaders.”

Griffith Sports college director, Naomi McCarthy OAM, added: “Our sponsorship of the Athlete of the Year Awards aligns strongly with Griffith’s reputation for high performance and our longstanding support for elite athletes.”

“We are excited to collaborate on the Women in Sport Series, advancing gender equity and driving positive impact across the sector,” McCarthy added.

The partnership will further focus on identifying emerging female leaders in sport and connecting them with mentors from QSport’s network of senior administrators, coaches, officials, and industry influencers. This initiative is designed to establish meaningful pathways for women to progress into leadership roles, supporting more diverse and capable governance structures.

In addition, QSport and Griffith University will collaborate on a research program examining the lived experiences of women in sport, informing actionable recommendations for improving gender equity on sporting boards. The insights gathered will support evidence-based strategies for sustainable systemic change.

Established in 1992, QSport is the peak body for the sport industry in Queensland, supporting more than 70 State Sporting Organisations. It is dedicated to building leadership, advocacy, and measurable impact while bringing diverse communities into sport.

Further details about the Women in Sport Leadership Series, mentorship opportunities, and upcoming insights reports will be released as the partnership progresses.

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