Supporting Independent Fitness Businesses Across Australia
AUSactive recognises the members of its 2026 Independent Business Operators’ Advisory Group, whose experience and insight help represent independent operators across Australia’s exercise and active health sector.
The group brings together business owners and operators from a wide range of fitness and wellness settings. As a result, AUSactive benefits from diverse perspectives grounded in real-world experience.
A Voice for Independent Business Operators
Members of the independent fitness business advisory group draw on their day-to-day experience running independent businesses. Through ongoing engagement, they provide practical insight into the realities of operating within a changing market.
In particular, the group contributes to discussions around:
-
Business sustainability
-
Workforce challenges
-
Regulatory considerations
-
Evolving market conditions
Because of this input, AUSactive’s advocacy and policy work is informed by lived experience.
Informing Advocacy and Industry Initiatives
The Advisory Group plays an important role in supporting AUSactive’s work across advocacy, policy development and industry initiatives. Their contribution helps ensure independent operators’ perspectives remain central to broader industry conversations.
In turn, this supports outcomes that reflect the needs of businesses operating on the ground.
2026 Independent Business Operators’ Advisory Group Members
The members of the 2026 Independent Business Operators’ Advisory Group are:
- Mel Tempest (Chair)
- Carly Busseler – Norths Fitness & Revs Health and Fitness
- Christopher Boult – Premium Pilates & Fitness
- Darren Hewitt – Input Health Hub
- Jane Kilkenny – Fitness Energy
- Julie Sampson – Freedom Fitness
- Matt Taylor – Awaken Pilates and Yoga
- Matt Hoo – 5th Element Wellness
- Paul Brown – Founder, Paradise Fitness Clubs (Mr Retention)
- Steven Halligan – Halligan’s Fitness
Valuing Independent Voices in the Sector
AUSactive values the contribution of the Advisory Group and the role its members play in ensuring independent voices continue to be represented across the exercise and active health sector.
