Thursday February 8th 2024 marked a monumental moment for diversity and inclusion in the leisure industry with the successful culmination of the Diversity, Inclusion in Leisure Forum at ZINC in Melbourne. The event brought together industry leaders, local champions and advocates, to discuss and share best practices on fostering inclusivity in leisure spaces.

The forum's agenda was packed with insightful presentations and panel discussions that covered a range of topics, including community engagement, the importance of partnerships and people, inclusive technology, mental health, inclusive strategy building, training opportunities and attracted over 210 attendees.

Master of Ceremonies and CEO of Disability Sport and Recreation, Liz Tesone, provided fabulous energy and engagement ensuring the delivery of a fantastic day of presentations. The forum included:

• 13 short TedX-style presentations shared evidence-based best-practices approaches which have been developed and implemented across the Aquatics and Recreation Industry to advance Diversity and Inclusion.

• 2 panels discussing Employment impacts and outcomes, and social value impact and outcomes.

• Digital showbag with important additional resources for delegates

Networking events provided a unique platform for professionals to connect and foster collaborations. The stories shared by individuals who had directly benefited from inclusive leisure programs were particularly moving and underscored the importance of the forum's objectives.

The forum concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration, with plans for a comprehensive report summarising the discussions and recommendations made during the event. The report, expected to be released later in the year, will suggest additional support, resources, strategy and additional workshops aimed at improving the confidence and capacity of our sector in better welcoming, supporting and including all.

As delegates left ZINC, there was a palpable sense of hope and determination. The forum was not just an event; it was a stepping stone towards a more inclusive future in leisure — a future where everyone has the opportunity to participate, engage, and enjoy without barriers.

Belgravia Foundation would like to thank its collaborators for helping bring this event to life and looking forward to delivering another forum in 2025.

• Aquatics and Recreation Victoria

• AusActive

• Aligned Leisure

• Bluefit

• Belgravia Leisure

• YMCA Victoria

• Disability Sport and Recreation