An independent evaluation conducted by researchers at The University of Western Australia (UWA) has confirmed the significant and positive impact of SportWest’s True Sport Mental Health & Wellbeing Initiative across Western Australia’s sporting sector.
The comprehensive report, covering the first 9-12 months of implementation since launching in October 2023, found that the initiative is driving meaningful improvements in mental health literacy, confidence, and organisational capacity among State Sporting Associations (SSAs). With over 100 SSA employees engaging in eLearning modules and 61 participating in workshops, the initiative has already reached 38 organisations and is laying the groundwork for long-term cultural change in sport.
The evaluation revealed statistically significant improvements in participants’ ability to recognise, respond to, and manage mental health issues and critical incidents. It also highlighted the value of the Mental Health Champions Network, which is helping embed mental health support across SSAs and clubs.
The comprehensive evaluation found that 97% of participants were satisfied with the program, with 100% of workshops receiving outstanding ratings and significant improvements in mental health literacy across the sector.
Summary of Key Achievements:
Successful Delivery & Reach:
- 100 SSA employees from 38 organisations engaged with the eLearning modules (52% completed, 48% in progress).
- 61 SSA employees from 35 organisations completed workshops.
- 19,467 interactions with the Online Resource Hub between Oct 2023 – July 2024.
- Resources were widely promoted via websites, social media, newsletters, and events across Western Australia.
Positive Impact on Mental Health Literacy:
- Statistically significant improvements in mental health literacy following eLearning
- Participants reported increased:
- Awareness and confidence
- Ability to respond to mental health issues and critical incidents
- Knowledge of available support and resources
High Satisfaction with Training:
- 97% of eLearning participants were satisfied and would recommend the modules.
- 100% of workshop participants were satisfied and found them valuable.
- Workshops were equally effective across formats (half-day, full-day, online).
Organisational Change & Capacity Building:
- Mental Health Champions embedded in SSAs were seen as highly valuable (91% agreement).
- Initiatives led to:
- Creation of working groups
- Inclusion of mental health in strategic plans
- Increased capacity to manage mental health issues
Strong Endorsement from Stakeholders:
- True Sport Advisory Group reported:
- High satisfaction with the initiative
- Increased health promotion capacity
- Enhanced partnerships and collaboration
Qualitative Insights:
- Participants praised:
- The coordinated industry approach
- Practical, accessible resources
- Improved confidence and knowledge
- Recommendations included:
- Tailored support for clubs
- Strategic partnerships (e.g., with local government)
- Continued investment and promotion
“The results of UWA’s independent evaluation affirm what we’ve seen across the WA sporting community - this initiative is driving real, measurable change.” said Jasmine Cappellucci, True Sport Manager. “From increased mental health literacy to stronger organisational capacity, the findings show that True Sport is helping build safer, more supportive environments for everyone involved in sport. We are proud to be leading a nation-first approach to mental health in community sport and extend our sincerest thanks to the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport, and The Mental Health Project for their support in making this groundbreaking work possible.”
