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ABC–Deakin Survey Lays Bare Systemic Gaps in Australian Women’s Elite Sport

The report supplies rare cross-sport data that elevates athlete calls for urgent reforms.

Overview

  • Based on 152 responses from current and recently retired athletes across 47 sports, the survey captures experiences spanning Aussie rules, netball, athletics, soccer, rowing and basketball.
  • Financial strain is widespread, with 39% earning no money from their sport, 36% earning $5,000–$20,000 annually, and 73% saying women in their sport are underpaid compared with men.
  • Reports of harm are common, as 34% have experienced sexual harassment or violence, 59% have witnessed it, 32% have been trolled online, and 67% have witnessed racism in women’s sport.
  • Health gaps are pronounced, with 75% reporting menstrual irregularities, 44% reporting eating disorders, and 65% reporting serious injury or concussion, while nearly half say maternity protections are insufficient and a quarter delayed pregnancy.
  • Resource and policy concerns persist, with 68% saying there are too few women coaches, 49% citing unequal access to facilities and support, 89% calling media coverage insufficient, 85% citing inadequate women’s‑health education, and views split on inclusion policies.