Football in Victoria is changing.
Every year, more women and girls are stepping onto the pitch, joining thousands that play our great game.
But equally, women are settling into their places in the boardrooms and clubrooms where decisions are made.
Historically, women have been underrepresented in leadership positions across sport, despite making up such a vital part of the game. Ensuring more women are supported to step into these roles is critical to creating a football landscape that is both inclusive and sustainable.
This is what inspired Football Victoria’s Women in Leadership Workshop. Held in July, the one-day program at The Home of The Matildas at La Trobe University brought together 30 female Presidents, Vice Presidents and committee members from across the state, to build skills, confidence and networks that will help them thrive as leaders.
Momentum for this shift has also been driven by policy. The Victorian Government’s 40-40-20 mandate, which requires gender balance on the boards of state sporting organisations, has opened new pathways for women to step into decision-making positions.
Guided by experts in governance and leadership including Women Onside Chair, Kerry Harris and Associate Professor, Fiona McLachlan, participants explored a number of key themes, with inclusive leadership, gender equity in sport and the practical realities of running community clubs at the forefront. The emphasis on governance was balanced by robust discussion on how women can bring fresh perspectives and create lasting cultural change within their clubs.
FV Chair, Dr Angela Williams joined Ballarat SC President, Lucy Brennan, on a panel to discuss their leadership journeys in their respective football roles.
Williams was thrilled to welcome the group to The Home of The Matildas.
“Opportunity is only the first step.
“It is vital that women stepping into leadership roles have the tools and support to succeed.
“This remarkable group of women left me feeling energised and optimistic about the enhancements they bring to their clubs and the wider football community.”
Football Victoria’s Executive Manager of Equity, Growth & Inclusion, Karen Pearce OAM, said the initiative is central to the organisation’s vision for the game.
“Empowering women in leadership is not about meeting targets or tokenism.
“Diversity of opinion and lived experience enriches decision making.
“We’ve been thrilled by the feedback from our inaugural workshop and will continue to provide opportunities to support women to excel in leadership roles.”
By equipping women with the confidence and skills to lead, we can shape a future where governance across the game truly reflects the diversity of its community.