As at October 28, Netball Queensland had recorded 66,877 unique playing members, surpassing its 2026 target of 65,302. The result represents 5.7 per cent growth on 2025, or an additional 3,477 members, with just under three months of the year remaining.
Growth has been widespread, with 55 of Queensland’s 99 associations increasing their membership in 2026. Western Districts Netball Association recorded the largest rise, welcoming 586 additional members.
First Nations participation has also been an important part of that growth.
Members identifying as First Nations account for 5.6 per cent of all members, compared with 4.6 per cent of Queensland’s population. First Nations members are represented in 98 associations across 64 Local Government Areas.
Netball Queensland CEO Kate Davies said the results provided a fitting backdrop to today’s event and reflected the work of associations, clubs, volunteers and communities across the state.
“These results show the ongoing strength and popularity of netball in Queensland, as well as the commitment of the people who create welcoming opportunities to play in communities across our state,” Davies said.
“In 2027, we will continue addressing barriers to growth, including access to coaches, facilities and organisational capability. We will also evolve programs to broaden netball’s market and explore the feasibility of establishing associations, programs and competitions in identified growth areas.
“The Queensland Parliamentary Friends of Netball is important because it connects parliamentarians directly with netball stakeholders and the communities they represent. Those relationships will help us sustain and enhance this growth into the future.”
Launched in 2023 to strengthen netball’s relationship and collaboration with the Queensland Government, today’s event brings together Members of Parliament and representatives from Netball Queensland, the Queensland Firebirds, Sunshine Coast Lightning and Queensland Suns Men’s and Mixed Netball.
“I’m thrilled but not surprised that Netball Queensland has surpassed its membership growth target,” Member for Cooper and QPFN Joint Chair Jonty Bush said.
“Netball is an incredibly popular sport, and with the newly launched "Go for Growth" Strategic Plan Netball Queensland has solidified the sport's position as the state's leading team sport for women and girls.”
Following the successful inclusion of the Super Netball derby between the Firebirds and Lightning in this year’s QLD Day Mega Round, the fixture will again celebrate Queensland’s love of sport in 2027. The Lightning will host the Firebirds at UniSC Arena on June 6 with the Queensland Cup once again on the line.
“Queensland's netball community continues to go from strength to strength,” Member for Glasshouse and QPFN Joint Chair Andrew Powell MP said.
“Reaching this milestone ahead of schedule is a fantastic achievement and reflects the hard work of local associations, clubs, coaches, officials and volunteers.
“As Joint Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Netball, I look forward to seeing that growth continue and ensuring the voices of netball communities are heard in Parliament.”
