Community sporting clubs and associations are the backbone of the Central Highlands. Powered by passionate volunteers, they create opportunities for participation, connection and community pride. Yet many organisations face ongoing challenges, including workforce and volunteer turnover, limited succession planning, and difficulty attracting and retaining diverse leaders. 

Leading From the Front is a practical workforce sustainability program designed to strengthen the off-field leadership, committees and volunteer structures of Central Highlands sporting organisations.

Delivered by Sports Central, the program will provide subsidised consulting support to a limited number of organisations in 2026.

What the program includes:

  • Australian Sports Commission Game Plan Modules
    A facilitated process to identify governance and skill gaps, and future workforce needs.
  • Workforce Skills & Diversity Profile
    A comprehensive snapshot of current leadership capability, volunteer skills and representation.
  • Recommendations Report & Action Plan
    A clear, prioritised roadmap outlining practical next steps, succession strategies and governance improvements.
  • Advisory Session
    Expert guidance to strengthen diversity and inclusion, introduce sustainable governance practices, and explore further support, partnerships and funding pathways.

The Outcome
By the end of the program, organisations will:

  • Understand their workforce strengths and development areas
  • Have a clear, actionable sustainability plan
  • Be better positioned for long-term growth and community impact

Applications Now Open
Applications for the 2026 intake are now open.

Places are limited and demand is expected to be high.

Sporting organisations across the Central Highlands are encouraged to express their interest in participating in this targeted, high-impact program.