The one constant in the 152-year-old story that is uniquely Carlton’s is change – and in an ever-changing world the need for change has never been greater.
 
Both on the field and off it, this football club is well-advanced in its much-publicised reset, with inclusivity to the forefront of its modus operandi.
 
Of paramount importance to Carlton is its push for gender equality – its quest to ensure all people with an empathy for this football club feel like they truly belong.
 
Crucially, the Club’s CEO Steven Trigg understood from the outset that gender equality was a big picture item for 21st century Carlton.


Carlton will take part in the inaugural AFLW season. (Photo: Carlton Media)
 
“It was really apparent that Carlton, at 150 years of age, had an enormously rich history and lovely heritage, but quite clearly had to become a more inclusive and engaging club with a broader range of people in it in particular,” Trigg said.
 
“What was obvious was that we had the capacity to be doing more, being better and becoming leaders in a very important area of equality.
 
“Our mission has quickly become to be the most inclusive club possible. To do that we need to be thoroughly immersed in equality and being leaders in equality…and if we can get that right it will help Carlton to grow.”
 
In keeping with its mission statement, Carlton strives for an employee, supporter and playing base that is truly reflective of the Australian community.
 
The past two years has seen Carlton walk the talk in terms of gender diversity.
 
The Club was delighted to welcome Kate Jenkins to its Board in October 2015. As Australia’s Sex Discrimination Commissioner Jenkins has a wealth of knowledge in this area, and is the convener of the Victorian Male Champions of Change, a group aimed at advancing gender equality. The program is supported by Carlton’s CEO and includes AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan and Carlton Board member Luke Sayers.

In Round 17 this year, the Blues launched CARLTON RESPECTS, a new program to prevent family violence and promote respectful relationships. To mark the occasion players ran out on the MCG wearing bright orange socks, a colour synonymous with harmony and respect. Such was the success of the launch and ongoing campaign, the Club gained recognition from the government and family violence prevention organisation, Our Watch.
 
The acquisition of an AFLW licence and formation of the women’s team has been another step in the right direction, with the Club proud to be part of this history-making moment.
 
Internally, women now represent 50 per cent of the Blues’ executive team and 45 per cent of total staff, while a diversity sub-committee, driven by the Board and external advisors, has been established.


The staff and players of the Carlton Football Club. (Photo: Carlton Media)

Given its elevated status in the Australian sporting landscape, Carlton is truly mindful of its responsibility as a game changer – in this instance, change in the way girls and women see themselves and the way communities perceive them.
 
Carlton appreciates its obligations to the greater cause, of influencing people to see beyond their prejudices and help break down the barriers. It also understands its place in the big picture role sport in general has in bringing communities together and enhancing social connectedness and cohesion.
 
As the Blues remain committed to their roadmap for sustained success, the Club will continue to implore support for increased female membership and women’s game-day attendance – creating a truly inclusive club.