AusCycling launches Inclusion and Diversity Strategy

AusCycling has launched its inaugural Inclusion and Diversity Strategy.

The strategy represents AusCycling’s commitment to pursue a truly inclusive and diverse riding community for everyone that calls Australia home.

With the goal of creating safe, friendly and connected riding communities, the strategy is intentionally inclusive in approach and language, reflecting the uniqueness of individuals and recognising diversity in all its forms including gender, ethnicity, age, ability, socio-economic status, and values and beliefs.

The strategy was developed in conjunction with the Inclusion and Diversity advisory group following widespread consultation across AusCycling communities.

The strategy will initially focus on driving change in four key areas:

1. Reimagining the experience of connection with individuals, communities, and clubs.
2. Improving AusCycling clubs and delivery networks to facilitate inclusive communities.
3. Driving for equity in all aspects of the sport.
4. Expanding and improving our active recreation communities.

The strategy also sets targets over the short, medium and long-term to improve representation in membership, leadership, coaching and officiating.

AusCycling CEO Marne Fechner said:

“We’re proud to be launching this important strategy that not only outlines AusCycling’s ambition for inclusive and diverse riding communities, but also importantly identifies the work needed to remove barriers and progress this strategy.

“We have a responsibility to ensure ‘every body’ has the same opportunities to experience the joy of riding a bike in safe, welcoming, and connected communities, where individuals can also feel a sense of belonging. The benefits of riding a bike should be available to all Australians regardless of who they are and how or where they choose to ride.

“Whilst cycling and riding is a sport, activity and lifestyle that can be enjoyed by every body, we acknowledge we’ve got work to do. As a young organisation we want to be a key part of the movement that breaks down the barriers for those demographics currently less represented.

“Work has already commenced on the development of our first Reconciliation Action Plan, and in partnership with our 450 clubs and event delivery partners, we look forward to making a real difference in our many communities across the country.”

AusCycling’s Head of Inclusion and Connection Dr Lynne Munro said:

“In launching this strategy, we are living our purpose to unleash the ‘unbound potential in every body’ and making a clear commitment to the future of our sport. A future where there is richness of people and experiences, where we embrace individuality, have equitable opportunities and find belonging. We recognise our starting point is some way off this ambition, but we are committing today to making a difference.

“Our ambition goes beyond moral obligation, it’s about growing our sport, and realising the potential in our people and environments. The first steps will be opening up conversations, building understanding and allyship to ensure the journey is one we go on together.”

A copy of AusCycling’s Inclusion and Diversity Strategy is available here.