The Sydney Convicts are delighted to share that our co-founder Andrew Purchas OAM has been appointed to the Board of Commissioners of the Australian Sports Commission (ASC). Andrew founded the Sydney Convicts over twenty years ago, and without his direction and determination our club would not be the welcoming and supportive place that it is.

Andrew is a leader in business, in LGBTQI+ advocacy, and in rugby. He co-founded Pride in Sport and is the Chair of its Advisory Committee, and he was the former Vice President of ACON Health. The Purchas Cup, contested every two years by gay and inclusive rugby teams from Australia and New Zealand, is named for him and his contribution.

The ASC's vision is that "sport has a place for everyone and delivers results that make Australia proud." Andrew's mission in founding the Sydney Convicts and supporting the club over two decades truly encapsulates this vision.

The ASC was established in 1985 to be the Australian Government agency that is responsible for supporting and investing in sport at all levels. The Board is responsible for setting the overall policy direction of the ASC and deciding on the allocation of resources. The Board is appointed by the Australian Minister for Sport.

Andrew is joined by three other new Commissioners on the ASC Board. They are Lydia Williams OLY, Dr Chloe Flutter, and Selwyn Button.

We know Andrew will continue to make a positive impact to sport and inclusion in Australia as he takes on this new role. Congratulations!

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To find out more about Andrew’s appointment, and the other appointees joining him on the ASC Board, following this link:

https://www.sportaus.gov.au/media-centre/news/australian-sports-commission-welcomes-new-commissioners