Sue Hunt AM has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Sports Foundation, following an extensive national executive search and competitive selection process.
“Sport has an extraordinary ability to enhance well-being and build a sense of community, much like the arts,” Hunt said.
“I am thrilled to be joining the ASF at such an exciting time, with the opportunity to work alongside sporting clubs, organisations and athletes, to enhance fundraising efforts that will improve health and well-being across the nation.”
The ASF is Australia’s national non-profit sports fundraising organisation. Over its 37 years of existence, the ASF has distributed nearly $700 million through its online fundraising platform and community sport grant rounds.
Hunt’s appointment as CEO of ASF signals the organisation’s commitment to not only increasing participation and funding in sport but also enhancing the role of sport in the health and social fabric of Australia.
As Australia approaches the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane, Hunt’s leadership at ASF will be pivotal to increasing access to sport and fostering a legacy of inclusion and excellence.
“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 well-being, and leading the ASF is a way for me to contribute to building a stronger, healthier community,” said Hunt.
“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.”
Holding a wealth of experience from the arts and not-for-profit sectors, Hunt most recently served as CEO of the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation.
During her 13-year tenure at RCH Foundation she significantly expanded the impact of community fundraising, transforming the organisation into a leading force in healthcare philanthropy. Under her leadership, the Foundation’s annual revenues doubled, and she developed initiatives that proactively responded to the hospital’s emerging needs and funded groundbreaking research projects.
These contributions were recognised in 2023, when Hunt was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the arts and community health.
ASF’s outgoing CEO, Patrick Walker expressed his confidence in Hunt’s appointment, saying her “exceptional leadership and proven ability to transform organisations come at a crucial time for Australian sport. Her fresh perspective and innovative approach will be invaluable as the ASF continues to champion sport and sport philanthropy across the nation.”
ASF chair Grant O’ Brien also welcomed Hunt to ASF, saying “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.”
Minister for Sport, Anika Wells echoed this sentiment as well, saying “Hunt’s proven expertise in fundraising and community engagement will be pivotal in enhancing the Foundation’s ability to secure vital resources for athletes and sports clubs nationwide”.
“The Australian Sports Foundation plays a vital role in making sport accessible to all Australians. Under Sue’s leadership we can expect new initiatives that will further strengthen our sporting communities,” she said.
“As we approach the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Ms Hunt’s leadership at the ASF will be crucial in nurturing the next generation of champions.”
Hunt will commence her role as CEO on September 16, 2024.