Policy Context

Engaging in regular physical activity is an important determinant of physical and mental health in children and young people’s wellbeing. Low levels of physical activity are a major risk factor for chronic conditions including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis.¹  Beyond the health benefits, children participating in organised sport provides a platform to socialise with peers and develop self-esteem, competitive aspects, and an active environment.¹ ² This is critical for sport retention in these early life stages.²

Participation is not limited to being an athlete; non-playing roles such as coaching, administration and medical support are also vital indicators of a young person’s integration into their community. Research suggests that young people who adapt to these roles develop strong leadership skills and strengthened social connectedness.³

Volunteering in non-playing roles is important for community sustainability. Research shows that while many young people participate in sport, there is a recognised need to enhance engagement and participation in sport as a pathway into volunteering, sustaining local organisations.⁴ ⁵ Sports participation can act as a gateway by helping to foster a prosocial identity and develop transferable organisational and life skills.⁶ Young people who volunteer in sports are more likely to transition into broader community service.⁶

Findings from the Youth Participation Research Project⁵ emphasise there are barriers to participation in physical activity such as cost, transport, time pressures, and personal factors such as lack of confidence, skill or motivation. Such barriers must be addressed in sports program delivery models to maintain and increase participation in physical activity.⁵

The Play Well strategy serves as Australia’s national roadmap to transform sport participation into a more inclusive, sustainable, and enjoyable experience for everyone.⁷