Building the Next Generation of Systems Leaders for a More Active Western Sydney

Written By Katie Lodge

Australia’s first place-based systems leadership program for, sport, physical activity and movement was launched at the WSYD Moving Symposium. As part of the WSYD Moving network, you understand how powerful collaboration, shared purpose, and working across sectors can be in tackling inactivity and inequity across Western Sydney. Together, we’ve built strong momentum — and we’re excited to introduce a program that will help take this work even further.

Symposium 2025 - South Western Sydney Local Health District

A program designed for our region

In 2026, WSYD Moving is launching a Systems Leadership Program focused on strengthening leadership in sport, physical activity, and movement within a defined geographical boundary.

This program responds directly to one of the four priority actions outlined in our 2024 White Paper, “Tackling Inactivity and Inequity in Western Sydney: A Systems Approach”, co-authored with the Centre for Western Sydney at Western Sydney University.

Its purpose is clear: to strengthen leadership capability and capacity so we can create healthier, more active communities together.

In Tribute to Adj. A/Prof Bill Bellew

The Systems Leadership Program is dedicated to the legacy of Adj. A/Prof Bill Bellew, Founding Director of WSYD Moving. Bill was a guiding force in the creation of WSYD Moving. He championed collaboration, systems leadership, and the power of relationships to drive change. His wisdom and influence helped set our direction — and his legacy will continue to inspire the way we lead, partner, and build a more active Western Sydney.


Who we’re seeking:

We are looking for 12 emerging leaders across Western Sydney — the spark plugs who:

  • Ignite energy

  • Bring a spirit of curiosity to complex challenges

  • Connect people and ideas

  • Accelerate collaborative action on inactivity

Ideal participants:

  • Work in or with Western Sydney communities

  • Care deeply about movement, physical activity, recreation, health equity or community well-being

  • Bring lived experience or professional insight

  • Are ready to collaborate and co-create across the system

What the cohort will gain:

  • Foundations in systems thinking and systems leadership

  • Tools for collaboration, influence and adaptive leadership

  • A practical, place-based applied project

  • Mentorship from experienced systems leaders and researchers

  • Connection with leaders across different sectors in Western Sydney to build relationships, share learning, and develop local solutions

  • A strong, diverse regional network committed to positive change

Program Snapshot (Feb–Jun 2026)

  • Location: Western Sydney

  • Cohort: 12 participants

  • Cost: Free for successful applicants

  • Format: Blended (in-person + virtual + applied project)

Modules include:

  • Leading Self

  • Leading Others

  • Leading Systems

  • Turning Ideas into Action

Applications close 19 December 2025

Apply now via wsydmoving.com.au/systems-leadership

Help strengthen our region’s leadership pathway

Please share this opportunity with emerging leaders in your organisation or networks.

Together, we can build the leadership Western Sydney needs to become a more active, connected, and equitable region.

Katie Lodge
Next

Mapping the Ripples of Change at the WSYD Moving Symposium