Sport and active recreation in Western Australia (WA) has provided a platform for participation, wellbeing and connections.  WA has maintained strong rates of participation through a network of  sport and recreation clubs.  This has been supported since the 1940's by a system of federations, councils, agencies and clubs.

1940 - 1975

• A number of National bodies such as the Amateur Sporting Federation of WA (ASFWA) and the National Fitness Council of WA (NFCWA) were formed in the 1940's with the aim of developing sport and fitness at a national level.
• The NFCWA generated a sub-committee, the Associate Sporting Committee (ASCWA), with a view to promote their vision of a fitter community through sport.  
• The ASCWA consisted of 23 sporting organisations.  One of the most significant achievements during this time was securing tax relief for State Sporting Associations (SSAs).
• In 1974, ASCWA became an independent, incorporated agency within the State's sports system and was renamed the Western Australian Sports Federation (WASF).

1975 - 1985

• WASF undertook a survey of sixty-one sporting organisations in WA to assess the effectiveness of the organisation and its furture directions.  The recommendations of this survey included WASF's future relationship with government including financial support/contribution.

1985 - 2000

• Towards the end of the 1980's a plan was developed to provide a framework for sports development in WA.
• WASF's objective became to: 'Represent the views of organised sport in WA through State Sporting Associations with the objective of promoting and sustaining interest in the development of all sport'.
• WASF managed the provision of WA Sports Lotteries House and major sporting events.
• WASF received funding from the government to provide leadership, representation and services.  WASF aimed to offer:
• Membership value for service and representation
• A contribution to sport policy and development
• A contribution to identification and subsequent resolution of priority issues in sport
• A contribution to the viability and relevance of sport in WA

2001

• In 2001, WASF's fiftieth year, the annual report documented the achievements within the industry.  This report outlined the impact WASF had on the development of policy for sport and the delivery of services to its members.  WASF's membership extended to 120 organisations.
• WASF had contributed strongly to the development and relevance of the sport and recreation industry.  It continued to identify and advocate for solutions to challenges affecting the industry in WA.  WASF was recognised as the independent, industry body for sport, maintaining its role as 'The voice of sport' in WA.

2008

• During 2008, WASF amended its constitution to incorporate active recreation.  This enabled WASF to represent and advocate on behalf of sport and active recreation organisations.  To view the updated constitution click here.

2009

• For further information about WASF today, click here.