AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT 2016–17 OVERVIEW AND HIGHLIGHTS highlights Male Champions of Change The ASC identified the promotion of women in leadership roles in both the ASC, and in the sporting sector, as a key priority. To accelerate change in this area the ASC committed to the Male Champions of Change Sport (MCCS) program. The program involved leaders from national and elite sporting organisations, most of whom are male, taking action to advance gender equality in Australian sport and their own organisations. Initiatives implemented by the ASC to create an environment where both women and men can thrive include: > > expansion of flexible working arrangements > > introduction of Future Female Leaders program to help participants step up into a CEO or executive level position > > piloting of Sponsorship of Talent program to develop and foster a network of sponsor relationships between ASC leaders and high-potential female middle managers. ORGANISATIONAL EXCELLENCE 26