About Sport Matters

Sport Matters uses the power of sport to change the world.

children jumping for a ball
african children playing soccer

We believe that everyone should have the choice and opportunity to participate in sport, for life!

In developed countries, most people take for granted the lessons, opportunities and the education that comes from participating in sport. In developing communities where people often have limited access to health care, education and employment, sport can play a significant role in improving quality of life and uniting communities.

Access to sport and physical activity is a fundamental human right. Sport is well recognised internationally as a low-cost and high-impact tool for development and a powerful agent for social change. It is a culturally accepted activity that brings people together and unites families, communities and nations.

Using a rights-based approach Sport Matters combines sport and play with other non-sport outcomes to achieve specific development goals. These goals might be in the areas of health, education, economic development, social inclusion, peace and the environment and Sport Matters tailors solutions to meet community needs.

Sport Matters is an Australian-based NGO, and an independent registered charity with no religious or political affiliations. Sport Matters is a Company Limited by Guarantee and a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission (ACNC). ACN 153389676. ABN: 29153389676.

Sport Matters is a member of ACFIDSport Matters is a full member of the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) and a signatory to the ACFID Code of Conduct which demonstrates our commitment to ethical practice and public accountability. The Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) is the peak Council for Australian not-for-profit aid and development organisations. Sport Matters is a signatory to the ACFID Code of Conduct, which is a voluntary, self – regulatory sector code of good practice. As a signatory we are committed and fully adhere to the ACFID Code of Conduct, conducting our work with transparency, accountability and integrity. Information about how to make a complaint can be found at www.acfid.asn.au

Sport Matters is a registered charitySport Matters welcomes feedback from our stakeholders and is committed to integrity and transparency in its actions. We have a process for handling complaints which may be initiated by contacting either:

– Christine Walton, Board Chair christine.g.walton@gmail.com or
– Jackie Lauff, CEO jackie.lauff@sportmatters.org.au 

About Us

Sport Matters uses the power of sport to change the world. We work in Australia and many developing nations around the world and we believe that everyone should have the choice and opportunity to participate in sport, for life!

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Our Board

Sport Matters is governed by a Board of Directors. Our Board brings a wealth of experience in the corporate, public service and not for profit sectors in Sport, Governance, International Development, Gender, Disability Inclusive Development and Advocacy.

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Our Team

Sport Matters has a network of volunteers and consultants that bring a strong passion for the role of sport to create lasting social change and a diverse range of professional backgrounds and qualifications.

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Our Policies

Sport Matters aims to make a positive and long-lasting impact on development in Australia and developing countries with a focus on the Pacific, Asia and Africa.

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Media

Sport Matters have been seen in many Australian and international publications. For more on Sport Matters and to view some of our most recent news articles:

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Sport Matters Annual Report 2022-2023 

Publications

To view our current publications, including our annual report - which captures a true and accurate record of our activities and full financial statements:

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