It’s no coincidence that we are launching a program to help Victorian women attain senior governance roles in the sport and recreation sector on International Day of the Girl – introducing the Change Our Game Women in Governance Program.

Why, you ask?

Quite literally, we are working to ensure a seat at the decision-making table for the generations of young girls to follow.

Applications are now open for the Change Our Game Women in Governance Program, to support women working and volunteering in the sport and recreation sector gain the knowledge, skills and ability to take on board positions at a regional, state and national level.

Delivered in partnership with the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the program is closely tied to Victoria’s world-first board quota for state sport and recreation bodies, which has doubled the number of boards with 40 per cent or more women since 2017.

“The importance of diverse voices in decision making cannot be underestimated,” said Sarah Styles, Director of the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation.

“We’re pleased to be able to support women to thrive in governance roles through this program, whether they are early in their director journey or looking for that first opportunity.

"If you think you’ve got what it takes, I encourage you to apply for this program.

“Likewise, sporting organisations are encouraged to support applications from existing directors as well as for women identified in their pipeline of future directors – a planning process that should always be under consideration,” Styles said.

A successful pilot program last year saw 25 women graduate and many subsequently take up leadership and executive positions, one of whom was newly appointed Swimming Victoria board member Michelle Harris.

Michelle said, “The course was a great reminder that there are amazing women who know and understand organisational governance responsibilities and together we can make the next step to important board positions across our sector.  

"With this inspiration and additional knowledge I nominated for a Swimming Victoria board role.”

The program provides a comprehensive overview of the main components of directorship including governance, strategy, risk and finance.

It provides formal training and development opportunities to women who are new and aspiring directors, senior executives, and managers with two streams on offer - Stream 1 will provide training for up to 25 women who currently sit on a board, and Stream 2 will provide training for up to 25 women who aspire to become future board members.

Applications are now open and close at 5pm AEDT, Monday 8 November 2021. To find out more, visit the Change Our Game Grants page or Apply Now via Grants Online.