Over recent months, I’ve had the opportunity to visit a number of metropolitan and regional clubs and continue to be encouraged by the resilience and commitment being shown across the sector. Despite ongoing economic and operational pressures, clubs continue to evolve, invest in their facilities, support their communities and provide important social connection across the state.

At the same time, there is no doubt the operating environment remains challenging.

Like many industries, clubs are continuing to navigate increasing costs associated with utilities, wages, insurance, food supply and fuel, particularly within regional areas where transport and operational pressures can have an even greater impact. Many clubs are also balancing volunteer fatigue, governance responsibilities and increasing compliance obligations, while still striving to deliver high-quality experiences for their members and local communities.

These challenges reinforce the importance of clubs continuing to adapt, collaborate and seek opportunities for long-term sustainability.

One of the key focuses for Clubs SA throughout 2026 has been building practical support pathways for clubs through training, advocacy, partnerships and industry development initiatives. The Club Development Program continues to gain strong traction, with clubs embracing opportunities to strengthen governance, financial literacy, sponsorship capability, facilities management and commercial operations.

Importantly, this program is not simply about compliance – it is about building stronger clubs and more confident leaders.

Thanks to support through the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing’s Sector Success Program, we are now seeing broader engagement from clubs across both metropolitan and regional South Australia. We also continue to work closely with councils, government and industry partners to identify funding opportunities, operational support and practical initiatives that can help clubs improve sustainability and future planning.

Our recent inaugural Club Leaders’ Summit,  provided an important opportunity for industry leaders, managers and committee members to come together to discuss the future of clubs in South Australia. The Summit focused on practical industry issues including governance, compliance, gaming and wagering reforms, workplace challenges, venue operations and emerging opportunities for clubs.

We also recently introduced the Women in Clubs Luncheon event in May which also highlighted the continued contribution of women across our industry. It was extremely encouraging to see strong engagement and important conversations around leadership, career development and greater representation across the sector.

As we move further into winter, I encourage clubs to continue looking at practical ways to engage members, review operations and identify opportunities for innovation within their venues. Sometimes small operational improvements, stronger communication or simple venue enhancements can make a significant difference during quieter trading periods.

Clubs SA also remains heavily engaged in advocacy on behalf of members across a range of important matters, including liquor licensing reforms, gaming machine technical changes, AML/CTF obligations, workplace relations issues and broader red tape reduction initiatives. Our focus remains on ensuring clubs have a strong voice in discussions that directly impact their operations and long-term sustainability.

Finally, I encourage clubs to begin considering nominations for the upcoming Clubs SA Awards. Every year these awards provide a fantastic opportunity to recognise the volunteers, staff and venues making an outstanding contribution to their communities and to the broader club industry.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Clubs SA and for the work you do within your clubs and communities every day.

Peter Apostolopoulos
Chief Executive Officer