Sport Inclusion Australia Marks 40 Years of Championing Inclusion  

In 2026, Sport Inclusion Australia marks 40 years of advancing inclusion for people with an intellectual impairment – those with intellectual disability and autism – in Australian sport and internationally. 

Through our work, more than 8,000 athletes — alongside thousands of families, coaches and carers — have experienced greater access, opportunity and belonging through sport. 

That impact hasn’t happened alone. We’re proud of what has been built over four decades alongside governments, national and state sporting organisations, disability leaders, community partners and the athletes, families, support teams, coaches and the community that show up and push for better.   

Board President Helen Croxford said the milestone reflects both progress and ongoing responsibility. 

“Sport Inclusion Australia exists because access to sport has not always been equitable — and while significant progress has been made, there is still more to do,” Ms Croxford said. 

“Inclusion strengthens sport for everyone. When we improve equity and representation for those who have faced the greatest barriers, the entire system becomes stronger.” 

The milestone also marks a leadership transition and renewed strategic focus. Under Chief Executive Officer Chantel Lewis, and with the continued guidance of a long-standing Board, the organisation is building on strong foundations while sharpening its impact. 

“We are not where we are today without the people who have shaped our journey over the past four decades,” Ms Lewis said. 

“There is forty years of commitment — and more than 200 years of combined lived experience across our Board, staff and members. Our responsibility now is to carry that knowledge forward and continue strengthening the system.” 

A refreshed brand and new website improve how the community accesses eligibility, pathways and resources, while also marking a clear step forward in how we present, align and lead into the future of inclusive sport. 

As a founding member of Virtus, Paralympics Australia and the Australian Sport Alliance for People with Disability, Sport Inclusion Australia remains focused on embedding inclusive practice — not only in moments of visibility, but in everyday clubs, competitions and governance structures across the country. 

Explore the website to learn more about Sport Inclusion Australia: sportinclusionaustralia.org.au