July Column: ClubsNSW Chair Sallianne Faulkner

We kicked off this week with the release of the McKell Institute’s report into the role clubs can play in helping address the state’s housing shortage. The report highlighted the significant potential for clubs to contribute to new housing while continuing to strengthen the communities they serve.

There are already many clubs that have built, are building or are planning to build housing, but too often these projects are delayed by complex planning processes and regulatory hurdles. The McKell Institute’s report outlines practical reforms that would make it easier for clubs to deliver more homes where they are needed most.

Clubs have a proven track record in delivering infrastructure that communities need, and with the right policy settings in place, there is an opportunity for our industry to make an even greater contribution in the years ahead.

It was fantastic to see strong media coverage supporting the report’s launch and amplifying its key findings and recommendations. It included The Daily Telegraph, an interview with Rebecca Riant on Ben Fordham’s 2GB Breakfast program (here from 51:56) and a comprehensive report during the 6pm bulletin on 7 News.

As conversations with the government continue around housing and a range of other important issues, I encourage clubs to remain engaged with ClubsNSW. We are strongest when we speak with a united voice and ensure decision-makers have a clear, consistent message about the positive contributions clubs make across the state.

Many of our member clubs have strong relationships with local MPs and those conversations can be incredibly valuable. If you are planning to engage with government representatives on issues affecting our industry, please reach out to our Policy & Government Team at [email protected] — they can assist with the latest information and key messages so that together we can continue advocating effectively for the industry and the communities we support.

The strength of that collective voice was on full display last month at the 2026 Clubs & Community Awards, which provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate what makes our industry so special. More than 900 guests came together to recognise the outstanding work being delivered by clubs in their communities across NSW — from supporting people facing homelessness and domestic violence to strengthening grassroots sport, healthcare and disaster recovery efforts.

Congratulations once again to all the winners, highly commended recipients and finalists and thank you for all of the work you do.

Before I sign off, a reminder that tickets are on sale for the 2026 ClubsNSW Annual Conference and AGM on the Gold Coast. Taking place from 7 to 9 October, the Conference is the biggest event on the club industry calendar, bringing clubs from across the state together to stay ahead of emerging trends, navigate regulatory change, learn from industry experts and connect with peers.

I encourage you to secure your place early (here) and I look forward to catching up with many of you there.