Media Releases

28 Aug 2008 - Expert Independent Sport Panel Appointed

The Minister for Sport, Kate Ellis, today announced the appointment of the independent expert panel that will investigate the reforms required to ensure that Australia's sporting system remains prepared for the challenges of the future.

"From helping to tackle obesity and preventable disease, through to preparing our elite athletes for the growing challenges of international competition, I am determined to ensure that Australia's sporting structure remains ahead of the pack," Ms Ellis said.

The expert panel will look at sport at both the elite level and at the grassroots community level, as part of a top-to-bottom examination of Australian sport and will leave no stone unturned in the search for better ways to run, promote and manage sport in Australia.

The panel will be chaired by highly-regarded businessman David Crawford, who has previously modernised and driven change at the Australian Football League and Football Federation Australia. He is also chairman of Foster's Group Ltd and a director of BHP Billiton Ltd, as well as holding other senior corporate positions.

Mr Crawford will head a team that includes:

• Mark Bouris - leading businessmen and creator of Wizard home loans. Sydney Rooster Rugby League Club board member
• Sam Mostyn - extensive background in law and corporate affairs, and AFL commissioner
• Pam Tye - Hockey Australia President and former Australian Sports Commission board member
• Colin Carter - a senior adviser to the Boston Consulting Group and a director of a number of companies including Wesfarmers and World Vision

The panel will explore advances in sport science, the new emerging international sporting trends, and the best methods to retain and build upon Australia's international standing in sports of all codes.

Ms Ellis said there were other important issues for the expert panel to consider beyond elite and international sport.

"Sport plays an important role in health and education, as well as the social and cultural life of communities throughout Australia, and we need to build on this tradition," she said.

"Engagement in sport and physical activities by the wider community is also vital in helping to build a better and healthier Australia, and we want it to play a leading role in delivering on the Government's preventative health agenda.

"David, Pam, Colin, Mark and Sam bring a wealth of experience and expertise and I am confident they will do a great job. I look forward to working with them to safeguard Australia's sporting system."

Terms of reference and details of panel members follow.