Six megatrends are to reshape Australian sport over the decade from now to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games according to a new report from the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
Chief Executive of ASC, Kieren Perkins said the report The Future of Australian Sport highlighted the significant shifts expected to play out in Australian sport in the next 10 years and beyond.
Mr Perkins said the six megatrends included ‘Escalate the exercise’, modernising sport to create new pathways for all Australians; ‘New horizons’, adopting new and emerging technologies; and ‘The next arena’, the rise of entertainment sports including augmented reality, virtual reality and e-sports.
He said they also included ‘Mind the gap’, bringing Australia together across the generational and societal divides; ‘Our best sporting side’, encouraging diversity, inclusivity, fair play and sustainability; and ‘The perfect pivot’, adapting sports for a more uncertain world.
“Many of these challenges relate directly to our key focus areas as outlined in our strategic vision like building the capability of, and driving innovation in sport, and promoting and supporting inclusive, diverse and safe sporting environments,” Mr Perkins said.
“We want to deliver a system that we can all be proud of, one where sport is inviting and welcoming to all Australians, all of the time,” he said.
“The findings will help us ensure we are at the top of our game and well placed to embrace and take advantage of this defining era for Australian sport.”
Director of CSIRO’s Data61, Jon Whittle said the six megatrends could help decision-makers and sport strategists understand the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“Next generation technology is reshaping the sporting field as is a new generation of Australians with new habits, values and attitudes to sport and physical activity,” Professor Whittle said.
“The 2032 sporting landscape will look vastly different to what we see today as sporting populations and organisations seek greater diversity, access and integrity in sport at all levels,” he said.
“This report will play an important role in shaping long-term policy, strategic planning and investment decisions for the future,” the Data61 Director said.
The new 87-page Report can be accessed at this PS News link.
