Our History

Andrew Barr MLA sits with primary school students at the launch of the Active Kids Challenge.

The Foundation began in 2008 as an administrative unit of the Australian Capital Territory government to promote healthy lifestyle habits to primary school children. It was then known as the Children’s Physical Activity Foundation.

In July 2010 we gained independence and a new identity as the not-for-profit organisation, the Physical Activity Foundation Limited.

Our flagship program is the Active Kids Challenge (formerly the Minister’s Physical Activity Challenge).

The ACT Minister responsible for the Sport and Recreation Services portfolio and the Education portfolio, Mr Andrew Barr has been the Patron of the Foundation since its inception. The Minister’s Physical Activity Challenge is administered by the Foundation.

The Foundation is governed by a Board of community representatives passionate about the cause, and has been chaired by Adam Pine OAM since its establishment.

The governance of the Foundation centres on offering kids the kind of experiences and programs that will not only entice them to be more active now, but will also instill an ongoing desire for a healthy lifestyle generally.

The Board meets every six weeks at its Belconnen Markets office to discuss its strategic direction and operational imperatives.

At the conclusion of each Active Kids Challenge, the Foundation produces a report to recognise its contribution to participation outcomes of primary school children in the ACT.

 The Foundation is often approached by other service providers who deliver programs into schools. Before they can become part of the Active Kids Challenge experience we conduct a through assessment of their business practices and feedback findings from schools. This is to ensure that schools can be confident the provider’s programs are the best available.