Elite Sport and Elite Performer Policy

1. The purpose of our policy

Adelaide University is a proud member of the Elite Sport Education Network (ESEN) and is committed to supporting students engaged in elite sport or who are elite performers, as well as the staff who support them, to excel in both their studies and high-performance pursuits.

This policy outlines the principles and governance responsibilities that ensure equitable access to academic opportunities while supporting excellence in education, elite sport, and elite performance. Our commitment is to create a learning environment where achievement in study, sport and performance is valued, supported and celebrated.

2. Who our policy applies to

2.1 Inclusions

Our policy applies to:

• students formally recognised as elite athletes, elite performers, or elite sports personnel by national, state, or professional bodies
• students registered with the ESEN or endorsed by relevant arts councils or associations
• students accepted and endorsed by Adelaide University Sport
• staff who support students in the above endeavours.

2.2 Exclusions

Our policy does not apply to students who are not recognised or registered through approved external bodies or internal Adelaide University assessment processes.

This policy authorises the Executive Director, Student Engagement to maintain associated protocols.

3. Our elite sport and elite performer policy principles

Our principles for this policy are: 

3.1 We are committed to national standards

We align with the principles of the ESEN to ensure a nationally consistent and coordinated approach to supporting elite athletes and performers at Adelaide University.

3.2 We support dual success

We recognise that elite athletes and performers pursue dual careers, balancing their studies with high-performance commitments. We are committed to providing flexible, inclusive, and responsive academic arrangements to support their success, in line with the [insert resource title once confirmed].

3.3 We ensure fair and equitable access

We provide equitable access to admission, enrolment, assessment and progression opportunities. Where verified commitments affect academic performance, reasonable adjustments will be approved, while maintaining academic standards.

3.4 We promote wellbeing and balance 

We enable student-athletes and performers to balance study, wellbeing, and performance through access to appropriate services, facilities, and financial and pastoral support, in accordance with the [insert resource title once confirmed].

3.5 We uphold integrity and accountability

We make decisions about elite athlete, elite performer and elite sports personnel support in a transparent and consistent manner. Staff are responsible for applying the policy fairly, documenting outcomes, and upholding the University’s standards for ethical and accountable practice.

3.6 We respect privacy and dignity

We manage all personal and eligibility information in confidence and disclose it only when necessary to provide appropriate support.

3.7 We value inclusion and excellence

We celebrate excellence in sport and performance and promote an inclusive culture that recognises diverse pathways to achievement.

3.8 We encourage collaboration and responsibility

We expect students to engage proactively with staff, plan for known commitments, and communicate early to enable timely and practical adjustments.

3.9 We are committed to continuous improvement

We regularly review and strengthen our support for elite athletes and performers to ensure it remains effective, equitable, and aligned with the University’s standards and sector best practice.

4. Definitions used in our policy

Please refer to our Adelaide University glossary for a full list of our definitions.

Adelaide University Sport collectively refers to the Adelaide University Sport Department and Adelaide University Sport and Fitness, which together deliver sport at the Adelaide University.

Elite athlete means a student recognised by the Australian Institute of Sport, a State Institute or Academy of Sport, a professional players’ association, or a National Sporting Organisation.

Elite performer means a student recognised as a member of a state, national, or international performing arts company, or with demonstrated significant professional achievement such as a major role in a commercial production or a signed record contract.

Elite Sport Education Network (ESEN) means the national network endorsed by the Australian Sports Commission and delivered by the Australian Institute of Sport to support student athletes in higher education.

Elite sports personnel means coaches, referees, or support staff recognised at state, national, or international level, with equivalent travel and training commitments to athletes.

5. How our policy is governed

This policy is categorised, approved and owned in line with the governance structure of Adelaide University and the offices and officers listed below.

6. Legislation and other documents related to our policy

Refer to the Delegation Policy for all delegations at Adelaide University.

7. History of changes 

At the time of writing, Adelaide University’s organisational structure, position titles, and committee names have not been confirmed. Square brackets [ ] indicate placeholders for these details. Brackets are also used to identify policy elements that are subject to further decision-making or confirmation. These will be updated once final decisions are made.