We recognise the power and value of sport in shifting and creating more inclusive communities.
Champions of the West are working with sports-affiliated groups, local community clubs, professional athletes, and club administration to harness the influence of football in Melbourne’s west and improve the lives of women, girls and gender diverse people in sports culture.
Through Champions of the West, we provide workshops for club staff, leaders, players and umpires. Workshops include education on:
- the importance of respectful and inclusive clubs
- the impacts of gender stereotypes
- consent and respectful relationships
- being an active bystander to prevent gender-based violence
“Sport is a core part of Victoria’s social fabric. Across codes and in communities big and small, local clubs give Victorians of all backgrounds and ages unique opportunities to share in a deep sense of belonging and camaraderie.
“We know that for many children and young people, the behaviours modelled to them in community sport have a profound impact on the values and attitudes they take off the field, sometimes for many years into the future.
“The benefits of safe, inclusive and equitable sporting cultures can be felt across our whole society."
- Ros Spence, Minister for Community Sport, and Gabrielle Williams, Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence
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