Candidates ANU Sport Board 2026 - Charlotte Fitzsimons

Nominee Statement

I'm running for a position on the ANU Sport Board to ensure student voices are meaningfully represented in strategic decision-making. I have been involved in multiple programs, as a participant in interhall sport, social sport, clubs, and as a staff member - all of which have provided me with perspectives on what it takes to make ANU Sport thrive. I want to contribute at a Board level to ensure programs, facilities, and decisions reflect the needs of the students they serve. I'll bring both lived student experience and practical insight to ensure ANU Sport continues to deliver for its community.

Involvement in ANU Sport or broader sport sector

I currently work as the Student Officer for Interhall Sport, having previously held the same role in Social Sport. Alongside this, I participate in the interhall competition, the basketball club, the gym and have previously been part of the AFL club and Inward Bound. This experience gives me a comprehensive understanding of ANU Sport from an operational and participant perspective. I've worked closely with students, clubs, and staff, to understand what each stakeholder wants. My involvement spans all aspects of ANU Sport, allowing me to understand the diverse ways students interact with ANU Sport and what drives ongoing participation.

Professional / Leadership skills and experience

As a Law and Actuarial Studies student, I bring skills in governance, risk awareness, legal reasoning and data-informed decision-making. Through my sport administration roles, I've led committees, and delivered large-scale programs. As a Residential Mentor at Wright Hall, I developed strong capability in conflict resolution, duty of care, and supporting diverse student communities. I also serve as Vice Captain of my surf patrol and previously as Sports Officer at Wright Hall. I bring a balance of analytical thinking and practical leadership, allowing me to contribute effectively to Board decisions while representing student interests.

Lived Experience

As a woman who has, led, administered and participated in sport at ANU, I understand the barriers women face within sporting institutions. My experience across competitive and community sport, as well as leadership roles, allows me to advocate for more inclusive and accessible programs. ANU Sport's mission to attract and retain diverse participants can't be fully realised without diverse voices at the table making those decisions. I'm committed to ensuring ANU Sport reflects its diverse community.