Licensed clubs play a unique role in Australian communities – as gathering places, cultural hubs, and drivers of local impact. Increasingly, that role comes with heightened expectations around transparency and accountability.
Our Audit Partner, Navin Prasad, works closely with clubs across the country, helping them navigate today’s fast-evolving landscape of governance and stakeholder expectations. One trend we see gaining real momentum is sustainability reporting – not just as a regulatory task, but as an opportunity for clubs to showcase their positive contributions to the environment, their members, and the community at large.
This blog explores why sustainability reporting matters for licensed clubs, how it creates value, and what clubs can do to implement it effectively.
Understanding Sustainability Reporting
Sustainability reporting involves disclosing an organisation’s performance on key environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. For licensed clubs, this means telling a clear story about how they manage their environmental impact, support social wellbeing, and uphold ethical governance.
In practice, this could include efforts to reduce energy and water use, promote diversity and inclusion, minimise waste, support local causes, and maintain strong governance and responsible gaming practices.
Why Sustainability Reporting Matters for Licensed Clubs
1. Strengthening Reputation and Trust
Clubs are built on relationships and community trust. In today’s socially conscious environment, members – especially younger generations – want to see the organisations they support taking responsibility for their environmental and social footprint.
Transparent reporting helps clubs demonstrate leadership, showcase positive initiatives, and foster deeper trust with members and the wider community.
2. Attracting and Retaining Members
Sustainability is a key value driver for Millennials and Gen Z. Clubs that actively communicate their ESG initiatives can strengthen their appeal to younger, more values-driven members.
For example, a club that installs solar panels and embraces strategies to minimise energy, water, and material usage can use these initiatives to enhance its brand and member engagement.
3. Meeting Regulatory Compliance and Managing Risk
As government regulations around sustainability tighten, licensed clubs must stay ahead of the curve to ensure compliance. Reporting on sustainability efforts can help clubs identify potential risks related to environmental and social issues and proactively address them. Furthermore, staying compliant with sustainability regulations can reduce the risk of penalties or legal challenges in the future.
4. Driving Operational Efficiency
Sustainability and operational efficiency often go hand in hand. Initiatives such as energy-efficient lighting, water conservation, or improved waste management can lower costs while reducing environmental impact.
Sustainability reporting provides a framework for clubs to track and measure the impact of these initiatives and build a culture of continuous improvement.
5. Access to Funding and Building Partnerships
Many funding bodies, banks, and community partners are placing increasing weight on sustainability credentials. Clubs that can clearly demonstrate ESG performance through structured reporting are better positioned to attract grants, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships.
Key Areas to Cover in Sustainability Reporting
Environmental Sustainability
- Reducing energy and water consumption
- Implementing recycling and waste management programs
- Tracking and reducing carbon emissions
Social Sustainability
- Supporting local charities and community groups
- Promoting diversity, inclusion, and community engagement
- Providing programs for at-risk or under-served groups
Governance and Ethical Practices
- Upholding ethical conduct and transparency
- Maintaining robust risk management and governance frameworks
- Promoting responsible gaming practices
Economic Sustainability
- Balancing financial stability with social and environmental goals
- Ensuring cost-effective and responsible operations
- Investing in long-term sustainable growth
Best Practices for Implementing Sustainability Reporting
1. Set Clear Goals and Metrics
Define measurable targets – for example, reducing energy use by a specific percentage or increasing local sourcing. This provides focus and allows for clear progress tracking.
2. Engage Stakeholders
Involve members, staff, and community partners in shaping sustainability priorities. Regular feedback and surveys can help ensure efforts align with stakeholder values.
3. Use Recognised Frameworks
Adopt established sustainability reporting frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These provide structure and credibility.
4. Be Transparent and Honest
It’s important to be open about both successes and areas for improvement. Honest reporting fosters trust and supports continuous improvement.
5. Leverage Technology
Use technology tools – such as energy monitoring systems or data dashboards – to track progress and enhance reporting accuracy.
Helping Clubs Lead the Way
Sustainability reporting is no longer optional – it is becoming an integral part of how licensed clubs operate and engage with their communities. By embracing transparency and tracking their ESG performance, clubs can build trust, improve efficiency, meet evolving expectations, and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable future.
Now is the time for clubs to view sustainability reporting not just as compliance, but as an opportunity to lead with purpose and showcase the great work they already do. With the right approach and a clear framework, clubs can make sustainability a genuine source of pride for their members, stakeholders, and the wider community.
If your club is looking to take the next step in sustainability reporting, Navin and the team at SRJ Walker Wayland are here to help.
Navin Prasad
Audit Partner
📞 (07) 3490 9988 | 0488 023 218
✉️ navin.prasad@srjww.com.au
🌐 www.srjww.com.au
