Introduction

Australians have invested an enormous amount of emotional and physical capital in their sporting systems and structures. While Australian sport has many times been dissected from a historical and cultural perspective, there is little detailed analysis of sport's relationship with government.

Focus of the Book

The book focuses on sport policy, and examines the ways in which government has affected the development of Australian sport since 1919. The text identifies the political, economic and cultural context in which policies were set, and examines critical policy shifts.

Theoretical Foundations

The book also provides a strong theoretical foundation by first discussing the underlying principles of policy formulation, and second, the rationale for government intervention in national sport.

Case Studies and Topics

It includes a number of sport policy case studies, with particular attention to the following topics:

• Elite and Community sport development
• Trends in participation and sport fan preferences
• Problems in attracting young people to sport participation
• Improving the management systems of sporting bodies
• Government policy on sport broadcasting
• Tools for evaluating sport policy

Conclusion

Providing a unique blend of theory, history and practice, this text provides an essential foundation for sport policy analysis and will be read by students of sport studies and sport management as well as professionals with an interest in sport development.