Former Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins has been appointed as Chair of the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) for a five-year term. She is an accomplished leader with 30 years' experience in human rights, discrimination, law and sport, leading major reforms including the independent review of gymnastics in Australia, while also serving on the board of AFL club Carlton and chairing the grassroots sports initiative 'Play by the Rules'. 

It is hoped that she will bring a unique set of skills as ASC Chair, having navigated complex environments and delivered sustainable reforms to improve safety, welfare and governance. 

Acknowledging her extensive experience in public service, including a stint as Australia's Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Houston praised her skills in governance, wellbeing, gender equity and inclusivity as critical to the continued development of sport.

"Australian sport is committed to improving governance practices, as well as the wellbeing and inclusion of all participants, and Kate's unique skills are critical to supporting continued development and improvement. Commonwealth Games Australia welcomes her to the role of ASC Chair, and we look forward to working with her as we activate the green and gold runway to Brisbane 2032," he said. 

In her new role, Jenkins will lead the primary agency that funds and promotes sport in the country. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for sport in Australia, as codes across the country come to terms with their long history of contributing to gender inequality in Australia. "Kate has a commitment to public service that will benefit sport in its ongoing efforts to see athletes, coaches, officials and fans thrive," Houston added. 

Australian Minister for Sport Annika Wells said Jenkins would lead Australia through a pivotal time in its sporting history. "Kate Jenkins is an outstanding administrator who has improved systems and sectors during a decorated career that has included significant reforms in sport. [Her] background in human rights and as the Sex Discrimination Commissioner will be invaluable to the sporting community," she said.

CGA President Ben Houston also paid tribute to Josephine Sukkar for her contribution over the past three years as the first woman to chair the Australian Sports Commission. She is also the co-founder and principal of the Buildcorp Group and President of Australian Women's Rugby. 

"To Josephine, we say thank you. Her leadership when the sector was severely challenged by the pandemic was commendable and we welcome her enthusiasm as crowds and mass participation return to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games," he concluded.