SUSAN ALBERTI AC

“Today, there are so many ways people can get involved in the sports industry—whether through playing, administration, or volunteering outside of paid employment.”

Meet Susan Alberti AC, a lifelong supporter of the Western Bulldogs Football Club, where she has held various administrative roles, including Vice President. She played a key role in establishing the Women’s AFL elite competition, now known as the AFLW. Beyond football, Susan has had a successful career in the construction industry and is actively involved in numerous philanthropic activities, with a particular focus on medical research and Type 1 diabetes.

Sport Governance

“Navigating Sport Governance starts by ensuring you read everything that comes across your desk, understand your responsibilities, and ask plenty of questions. Sporting clubs’ governance arrangements now more closely resemble those of a company listed on the stock exchange, so you are accountable for every decision you are a part of.”

Diversity in Sport

“Sometimes, you don’t need to go far to find diversity—it’s often staring you in the face! Take an Australian Rules Football team. The support base is 50% women; they attract supporters from the highest echelons of society to some of our most needy, and they increasingly draw on our country’s strong immigration program for on-field talent. Think of names like Silvagni, Jong, and Aliir.”

A love for Australian Rules Football (AFL)

“My sports journey began in the 1950s, when, as a young woman, I would go with my brother to watch the Footscray Football Club play every second Saturday afternoon. I fell in love with the Club and Australian Rules Football, and volunteered my time in many different roles.

During my sporting journey, I have encountered people with very outdated and sometimes quite sexist attitudes about who can be involved in a sporting club.This only motivated me to work even harder to encourage greater participation and diversity in Australian Rules Football, helping to grow the game and bring it to new audiences.”

Never give up

“Never take a backward step and never give up! In Australia, sport is a great social leveller—it doesn't matter what your occupation is, where you live, what your surname is, or even your sporting ability. If you put your mind to it and have a go, you can achieve anything.”