Bringing Visionary Leadership to Australian Sport

Sue brings a wealth of experience from the arts and not-for-profit sectors, and in particular, her 13-year tenure as CEO of the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation (RCH Foundation), where she significantly expanded the impact of community fundraising. Under her leadership, the Foundation’s annual revenues doubled, and she spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that responded to the hospital’s emerging healthcare needs and funded essential research projects. Her exceptional contributions were recognised in 2023 when she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her service to the arts and community health.  

Now, as she steps into her new role at the ASF, Sue is poised to bring her visionary leadership to the world of sport. She deeply believes in the power of sport to transform lives and communities, having had first-hand experience during her career of the way in which the arts achieve a similarly powerful impact.  

“Sport has an extraordinary ability to enhance wellbeing and build a sense of community, much like the arts.”

A New Era for the Australian Sports Foundation 

Sue’s appointment underscores the ASF’s commitment to growing participation and funding in sport while enhancing the role of sport in Australia’s health and social fabric. As Australia looks toward the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Sue’s leadership will be pivotal in driving philanthropic support for grassroots and elite sports. She aims to build on the rapid growth in funds raised for sport in recent years and unlock additional resources to benefit the entire sporting community.  

“Having spent over a decade in health philanthropy, I understand the critical role of prevention in our healthcare system. Sport plays a vital role in supporting social cohesion and health and wellbeing, and leading the ASF is a way for me to contribute to building a stronger, healthier community.”  

Outgoing CEO, Patrick Walker, expressed his confidence in Sue’s appointment, noting that her fresh perspective and proven ability to transform organisations come at a crucial time for Australian sport. ASF Chair, Grant O’Brien echoed this sentiment, saying:  

“We are thrilled to welcome Sue to ASF. Her strategic insight and dedication align seamlessly with our goal to attract new sources of philanthropic funding for community sport and our emerging and representative athletes across Australia.” 

A Legacy of Leadership and Growth 

Under Patrick’s leadership, ASF experienced extraordinary growth, expanding from $17 million in funds raised in 2014 to nearly $80 million in FY23, and another record year in FY24. His vision and commitment have shaped ASF into the thriving organisation it is today, leaving Sue with strong foundations to build on.  

As Sue begins her new role on September 16, 2024, her immediate focus will be on fostering philanthropic support for community sport. She will also work to enhance ASF’s service offerings, infrastructure, and funding capabilities, ensuring that the organisation continues to grow and contribute to a healthier, more connected nation.   

In Sue’s own words:  

“Australia is a nation of sports lovers – it’s at the heart of every community, and I am one of those passionate supporters. Whether it’s athletes or sporting clubs, amateurs or professionals, grassroots or elite, I am committed to helping everyone reach their fundraising goals and grow philanthropic support for the sector.”  

We look forward to the next exciting chapter under her guidance.