That's a wrap on the 2026 NSW Sports Industry Conference
Published Thu 19 Mar 2026
Hundreds of representatives from across the sports sector gathered for the2026 NSW Sports Industry Conference, bringing together leaders, administrators, researchers and innovators committed to strengthening the future of community sport in New South Wales.
Organised by Sport NSW and supported by ACPE and RevolutioniseSPORT, the conference once again provided a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and practical learning. Delegates explored emerging trends, shared case studies and discussed strategies to ensure community sport continues to thrive and deliver meaningful benefits to individuals and communities across the state.
A major highlight of the conference was the launch of the landmark report Beyond the Game: The Value of Community Sport and Active Recreation in NSW, presented by Sport NSW CEO, Stuart Hodge. The report provides compelling evidence of the economic, social and health impact of grassroots sport, reinforcing the critical role community sport plays in building stronger, healthier and more connected communities. The launch was followed by a panel discussion featuring representatives from government and academia, who examined the report’s findings and discussed how the sector can work collaboratively to unlock greater investment and long-term impact for community sport.
Delegates were also challenged to think differently about the future of sport during a keynote presentation by futurist Reanna Browne, who explored the concept of the “adjacent present”. Her session encouraged sport leaders to recognise the subtle changes already occurring in technology, participation and society, and to act strategically today to shape positive futures for the sector.
Across a series of breakout sessions and workshops, speakers shared practical insights and real-world examples that organisations can apply within their own sports.
Key sessions included:
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Volleyball NSW’s journey towards a data-driven strategy, showcasing how stakeholder insights and data analytics can strengthen planning and decision-making.
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An update on theAustralian Sports Commission’s Infrastructure Action Plan and Open for Play agenda, outlining national efforts to improve access to quality sporting facilities.
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The launch of the Play Well Research Unit, demonstrating how integrated research, evaluation and storytelling can translate data into meaningful action across sport.
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A case study on fundraising through digital donation programs, highlighting new opportunities for clubs to generate sustainable revenue through registration platforms and partnerships with the Australian Sports Foundation.
Delegates also explored emerging technology trends, with a session on AI’s Performance Edge examining how artificial intelligence is set to reshape sport across performance, administration, participation and fan engagement in the coming decade.
Practical workshops focused on strengthening the sport environment, including an interactive session led by Sport Integrity Australia addressing sideline behaviour and safeguarding in community sport, and a workshop on applying the Social Ecological Model to drive behavioural change and innovation across sport systems.
The conference concluded with an inspiring conversation between Olympic champion Bronte Campbell and Stephanie Brantz, reflecting on Bronte’s journey from grassroots participation to Olympic success and leadership beyond the pool. Her story highlighted the lifelong impact of community sport and the important role that sporting organisations play in shaping resilience, culture and opportunity.
Delegates also took advantage of valuable networking opportunities throughout the day, while Sport NSW partners showcased innovative products and services supporting the evolving needs of the sport sector.
The 2026 NSW Sports Industry Conference once again reinforced the strength of the sport community in NSW and provided attendees with practical insights, new connections and renewed inspiration to support participation and growth in sport across the state.
