Project Report: Gender Diversity on Sporting Committees

This report investigates gender diversity within sporting committees across various clubs in Boroondara, a region known for its vibrant community sports culture. The study aims to understand the participation and representation of women and gender-diverse individuals in these committees, highlighting local efforts and challenges in achieving balanced and inclusive sports governance. A mixed-method approach was employed, including preliminary screening surveys (n=20) and in-depth interviews (n=14) with committee members from clubs involved in sports such as lacrosse, athletics, tennis, hockey, football (Australian Rules), croquet, cricket, pétanque, and soccer. The study received ethics approval from Swinburne University of Technology Human Research Ethics Committee. The study found that, among survey respondents, the average number of committee members per club is 9.8, with 36% identifying as women or gender-diverse. The average tenure in committee roles is 2.4 years. Support from local councils and State Sporting Organisations (SSOs) was noted, including resources, funding, and leadership programs. Gender diversity positively influenced committee dynamics by fostering inclusivity and productivity, reducing traditional gender roles in volunteer tasks, and improving decision- making processes. However, entrenched "old school" mentalities remain barriers to inclusivity. There were no consistent themes regarding diversity programs. Despite this, social programs were identified as a common driver of inclusive participation, helping to achieve better representation of women on committees. Time constraints, family responsibilities, traditional gender roles, burnout, and administrative overload were significant barriers. Entrenched committee and club cultures also hindered gender diversity. Informal recruitment practices, a sense of responsibility, and leveraging networks such as past players were identified as enablers. However, there is limited evidence of structured or strategic approaches specifically aimed at increasing women’s representation on committees. To address these challenges, this report recommends several strategies: Council Recommendations • Capacity Building Regarding Gender, Diversity, and Inclusion • Leadership Networks and Mentorship • Support and or Funding for Social Programs • Knowledge Management and Transition Club Recommendations • Defining Roles and Reducing Workload on Committees • Flexible Meeting Arrangements • Addressing Gender Norms • Improve Representation The findings of this study underscore the importance of continued efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusion within sporting committees. By implementing the recommendations, councils and clubs can create more inclusive environments, foster diverse leadership, and better serve their communities.