The Board of Sport Inclusion Australia (SIA) has confirmed the appointment of Chantel Lewis as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 8 January 2026.
In announcing Lewis’s appointment Sport Inclusion Australia President Helen Croxford highlighted the significant milestone for the organisation. “With over 20 years experience in inclusion, sport and human rights, Chantel is well placed to build on Sport Inclusion Australia’s strong foundation and will become only our second Chief Executive Officer since our establishment in 1986.” Croxford said.
“It is an incredible honour to follow in the footsteps of Robyn Smith OAM and to lead Sport Inclusion Australia into its next chapter.” Lewis said.
“Robyn has created a legacy that has shaped the landscape of inclusive sport not only in Australia, but around the world. I am deeply grateful for her mentorship, leadership and guidance over many years and for the opportunity to continue the work she pioneered strengthening partnerships, extending pathways, and ensuring that people with an intellectual impairment are included through sport.” Lewis
“Under Chantel’s leadership, Sport Inclusion Australia will continue to strengthen inclusive sport pathways, deepen collaboration with partners, and champion opportunities for athletes with an intellectual impairment to participate, perform and lead at every level of sport.” Croxford said.
Lewis has worked with Sport Inclusion Australia in various roles since 2017 and has worked with Sport Inclusion Australia’s Queensland member organisation Life Stream Australia since 2011.
Over the past 12 months as General Manager Lewis has played a key role in many of Sport Inclusion Australia’s national and international initiatives, overseeing operations, partnerships and program delivery across Australia and the Pacific.
Lewis lead the successful “Included Through Sport – Solomon Islands” project with support from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), focusing on education, leadership, and community inclusion.
During her work in Oceania Lewis was elected to the Oceania Paralympic Committee.
Working with Life Stream Australia Lewis coordinated inclusive events and community sport initiatives before transitioning into program and partnership development roles.
“I will always be grateful to Cathy Wilson and the Life Stream Australia team for giving me the chance to start this journey. Their belief and flexibility made it possible for me to pursue what has become my life’s work building pathways that empower others to belong, to be valued and to succeed through sport.” Lewis said.
A respected leader in inclusive sport, Lewis has focused her career on human rights, strengthening sport pathways, regional partnerships and integrity systems that ensure sport is equitable, safe and accessible for all.
Lewis expressed her appreciation to the Board of Sport Inclusion Australia for this opportunity and their guidance and support over the past 12 months.