AIS steps up support for rainbow athletes and allies

Athletes who are passionate about making sport more inclusive can now apply for the 2025 AIS Thrive with Pride Program.

Former ambassador Kalinda Robinson recently developed an LGBTQ+ inclusion guide for high performance coaches.

The longstanding initiative sees rainbow athletes and allies become ambassadors of LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport while coming together online to share ideas, challenges and opportunities.

For the first time, the AIS will also help ambassadors drive an inclusion initiative within their own sport such as running an event, delivering education sessions or introducing new policies.

Rising Australian track cyclist Kalinda Robinson used her time as a 2024 ambassador to develop an LGBTQ+ inclusion guide for high performance coaches.

“My goal was to create a resource with a lasting impact that coaches and support staff of elite athletes could use for education and reference,” Robinson shared.

“By providing practical strategies and fostering greater understanding, this guide aimed to create safer and more inclusive sporting environments.”

The 21-year-old from Bathurst has just been appointed as one of 25 International Olympic Committee Young Leaders and credits the Thrive with Program as an important stepping stone.

“I’m excited to take this initiative to the next level,” Robinson said.

“I plan to expand my work by increasing access to sport for the entire Australian LGBTQ+ community, contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Well-being, Gender Equality, and Reduced Inequalities.

“This platform will allow me to amplify my advocacy and make a broader impact.”

Cross-country skier and Biathlon Australia Board Member Katerina Paul has also used her experience as an ambassador to drive meaningful change.

“I have been actively involved in pushing forward a policy focused on inclusion and gender diversity at community sport level," Paul shared.

“Beyond the Thrive with Pride program, I am looking into collaborating with other organisations to raise further awareness about the need for diversity and inclusion in sport.

“The culture of sport is so rich and strong in Australia, I hope we can not only adopt policies that help inclusivity within sport, but I wish to help embed inclusion in the culture of sports across Australia.”

The nine-month program kicks off in April and sees athletes come together online to hear from LGBTQ+ experts.