Founder of the Women’s Coaching Association Dr Aish Ravi and Head of Rugby World Cup Legacy Projects at Rugby Australia, Jason Russell-Jones join the eleven-strong team tasked with enhancing the volunteering experience, boosting recruitment and improving retention among Australia’s sport volunteers.

Dr. Ravi is a pioneer for women’s leadership and gender equality in sport. She is passionate about inclusion, diversity and implementing best practice.

“I want to help ensure that more individuals, particularly from underrepresented communities, feel empowered to participate and experience the personal growth and connections that come from being part of a sporting community,” Dr Ravi said.

After working as a football coach and supporting numerous grassroots sports including Australian Rules Football, cricket and golf, Dr Ravi now serves on various state and national committees.

“Through volunteering in sport, I’ve built lifelong friendships and developed skills that go far beyond the playing field,” Dr Ravi shared.

“Sport has had such a positive impact on my life, and I want to help others experience that same joy and sense of community.”

Jason Russell-Jones also brings to the table a deep understanding of the issues faced in community sport after working in participation sport in both the UK and Australia for more than a decade.

“Personally, I’m looking to give back to a cause that is close to me, having been a volunteer in community sport for the best part of 20 years in various roles,” Russell-Jones said.

With the 2027 Men’s and 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cups just around the corner, Rugby Australia is now working through their legacy strategy with an emphasis on supporting current and future volunteers.

“The opportunity facing the game is unprecedented with British & Irish Lions and two Rugby World Cups…there’s never been a greater time to spotlight volunteers and make sure we’re supporting them the best way possible,” Russell-Jones said.

The Sport Volunteer Coalition was established in 2022 and developed a four-year Action Plan.