21 March 2025
Masters Swimming Australia and Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA) are benefitting from closer ties with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) through its Play Well Affiliate program.

Launched last year as part of the Play Well Strategy, the program opens up opportunities for organisations that sit outside the recognised national sporting organisations (NSO) or national sporting organisations for people with disability (NSOD) structure to work with the ASC to help more Australians be physically active.
Masters Swimming Australia General Manager Rob Abernethy said the organisation was relishing the opportunities the program has offered so far including further access to resources and industry connections.
“We’re delighted to be a Play Well Affiliate and work with the ASC to help more Australian adults take the plunge and give swimming a go in a fun and supportive environment,” he said.
PLA National President Kristin Davies said the organisation was also proud to be part of the program.
“We know that a thriving sport and recreation industry relies on collaboration and shared knowledge. This collaboration strengthens our collective voice, enhances shared resources, and unlocks new opportunities that will benefit our members and the broader community,” she said.
Applications have opened for the next round of the Affiliate program with the ASC calling on eligible sport and recreation organisations to apply and help more Australians play well.
“We’ve seen how partnering with other organisations that play a key role in the sport and recreation space can help us deliver the strategic priorities of the Play Well strategy,” Executive General Manager Sport and Community Capability and Chair of the Play Well Leadership Group Richard McInnes said.
“This program is helping us align the sector and create a more connected and collaborative eco-system that supports organisations to provide safe, welcoming, fun and inclusive sporting experiences and environments for everyone.”
In addition to contributing to the Play Well Strategy, Affiliates benefit through learning opportunities with the ASC, access to ASC resources and expertise as well as potential eligibility for ASC grant programs.
Organisations interested in applying to be a Play Well Affiliate are invited to attend an online information session on Wednesday 26 March from 11-11:30am. Register to attend here.
Applications to become a Play Well Affiliate close on 11 April.
For more information or to apply visit the Play Well website.