"SPORT4ALL" ACCESS AND INCLUSION PROGRAM - OUTCOMES AND LEARNINGS · Report

GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING                                                              9 JUNE 2026


REPORT
Background

Sport4All is a national initiative delivered by Get Skilled Access (GSA) and funded by the Australian
Government. Following a successful pilot in Victoria, the program was expanded nationally to
support local governments, sporting clubs and community organisations to become more inclusive
and accessible for people with disability.

Rather than a competitive grant, Sport4All operated as a two-year partnership between GSA and
participating councils. A key strength of the Sport4All model is its provision of two-year funding to
better facilitate long-term change. By building local capability and confidence, clubs and
organisations are better equipped to continue inclusive practices beyond the life of the program.

Noosa Council voluntarily joined the program in 2024, becoming the first local government in South
East Queensland to participate. Through this partnership, Council received both funding support and
specialist expertise to employ a 0.6 FTE Inclusion Coach over the two-year period.

Noosa Demographic Relevance

Noosa Shire has a diverse and ageing population profile, with a growing need to ensure equitable
access to sport, recreation and community services and infrastructure for all residents.

Key demographic considerations include:
•   A resident population of 56,298 people as at the 2021 census with a 2025 estimated resident
    population of 59,551
•   A median age of 50.5 years, significantly higher than the Queensland median
•   36% of the population aged 60 years and over
•   29.6% of residents living with one or more long-term health conditions
•   5.6% of residents requiring assistance due to a profound or severe disability
These figures highlight a substantial proportion of the community who may experience barriers to
participation in sport, recreation and community life.

In addition, the ageing population profile indicates that:
•   The prevalence of disability and access needs is likely to increase over time
•   Demand for inclusive programs, facilities and services will continue to grow
Noosa is also characterised by a highly engaged and active community, with strong participation in
sport, volunteering and community life. Ensuring these opportunities are accessible and inclusive is
critical to maintaining community wellbeing, social connection and participation.

This evidence demonstrates a clear and ongoing need to embed access and inclusion across
Council services and community programs and public infrastructure, ensuring that all residents have
equitable opportunities to participate in community life.

Noosa Access and Inclusionary Program – Overview

Noosa Council delivered the "Sport4All" Access and Inclusion program from June 2024 to June
2026.

Critical to setting up the program for success was the recruitment of the part-time Inclusion Coach
role and ensuring that the person appointed had lived experience of disability, experience within the
sports sector and a strong ability to develop effective relationships and partnerships.