Belgravia Leisure has commenced the field trial of CultureWise, a new digital cultural awareness training program that will be made available free of charge to the entire leisure, aquatics, recreation and fitness industry. Developed in partnership with Belgravia Foundation, CultureWise is designed to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural awareness, safety and capability across the sector.

The field trial began at the NSW & ACT Diversity and Inclusion in Leisure Forum on Wednesday 19 November and will continue until COB Tuesday 3 December, with consultation from key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations to follow through to mid December. A full launch of CultureWise is planned for early 2026.

Pictured in banner image: Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre team members Tabatha Newman, Wayne Swan, Clinton Day and Jen Smith.

Access to meaningful Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural awareness training in the leisure and aquatics sector has been limited, leaving many team members without the tools to create culturally safe environments. CultureWise responds to this need by offering a practical and accessible program that fosters respect, understanding and confidence across the industry.  

CultureWise is a key action of Belgravia Leisure’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and is aligned with its broader Social Inclusion Policy. Developed through extensive consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and organisations, the program reflects a strong commitment to creating culturally safe and inclusive environments across all Belgravia-operated facilities and beyond.

Core to the development approach for CultureWise has been adherence to a process of continuous feedback and refinement, aka evidence-based practice. Early feedback from has been resoundingly positive, from both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, Elders, and leaders, and likewise from leaders in the leisure industry.

“CultureWise is a standout example of innovation. It solves what felt like an intractable challenge, finding a way to deliver co designed, accessible and affordable cultural awareness training to thousands of team members across the country, all working different hours. CultureWise has truly answered that challenge,” said Chief Operating Officer, Anthony McIntosh.

With more than 8,000 Belgravia Leisure team members working nationally, many in casual or part-time roles, with nearly half aged 25 years or under and bona fide ‘digital natives’, the online format ensures flexibility and accessibility. Thanks to the significant financial contribution of Belgravia Foundation, the training will be made available free of charge to the entire industry – removing cost as a barrier and reinforcing Belgravia Foundation’s mission to promote equity and participation in community wellbeing. 

Tayla Pallas, Belgravia Foundation Aquatics & Inclusion Coordinator says, “CultureWise represents a meaningful step forward for our sector. It’s about creating environments where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel safe, respected and celebrated, while equipping our workforce with the knowledge and confidence to engage in a culturally inclusive way.”

Belgravia Leisure acknowledges the partners, Elders and team members whose guidance, cultural expertise and feedback have shaped CultureWise:

Learn more about Belgravia Leisure’s commitment to Social Inclusion.

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• Learn more about Belgravia Leisure’s people.