24 June 2026
Baseball in Australia launches 'Play Ball, Play Well' National Participation Strategy
Baseball Australia has unveiled its new National Participation Plan, providing a shared roadmap to grow participation, strengthen communities and create positive experiences across all levels of the game.
The plan replaces Baseball Australia’s previous national participation strategy, released in 2022, and aligns with the Australian Sports Commission’s (ASC) Play Well Strategy – Australia’s first national sport participation framework.
The plan was developed in partnership with Baseball Australia’s State and Territory Members and key stakeholders. It outlines the current state of the game, identifies opportunities for future growth and establishes a shared commitment to participation priorities across the country.
READ THE STRATEGY: Baseball in Australia’s Participation Plan
The launch comes at a time of continued growth for baseball in Australia. Participation increased by more than six percent between 2023-24 and 2024-25, with the sport on track to record further growth during the current financial year.
At the centre of the plan is a commitment to ensuring baseball remains safe, inclusive, welcoming and accessible for participants of all ages, backgrounds, genders and abilities.
The Play Well Strategy, developed by the Australian Sports Commission, aims to ensure “everyone has a place in sport” by creating environments where Australians can participate, connect and thrive through sport and physical activity.
The National Participation Plan was signed off on by all member states, with a commitment to supporting inclusive participation opportunities, promoting safe and respectful environments, and working collaboratively to implement and review the actions outlined within the strategy.
Baseball Australia Chief Executive Officer Glenn Williams said the plan provides a clear national direction for the sport while recognising the important role played by clubs, associations, volunteers, coaches, parents and administrators across the country.
“Baseball shaped my life,” Williams said. “From beginning at the Ingleburn Magpies to representing Australia at the Olympic Games and playing professionally, the game gave me opportunity, purpose, friendships and experiences I never imagined. Sport builds resilience, confidence, community and lifelong connections, and this plan aims to ensure more Australians can access those benefits.”
“Aligned with the Australian Sports Commission’s Play Well strategy, our aim is simple: ensure everyone has a place in baseball, so people can Play Ball, Play Well. With aligned priorities and a shared national direction, we can deliver great experiences for more people, in more places, more often.”
The National Participation Plan will guide participation initiatives throughout its term and be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains responsive to the needs of Australia’s baseball community.






























