Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity in Australian Chess

At the 2025 Australian Junior Championship a controversy occurred when the organisers gave out unequal prizes for girls and boys placegetters. This was most profoundly seen in the Blitz event where the third place Girls in the Under 16, 14, 10 and 8 categories were not even mentioned. While there were no cash prizes for third place in both Open and Girls blitz sections, there was recognition and prizes for the Open sections but not the corresponding girls sections. There was also an unequal distribution of cash prizes with every girls section being below that of the Open section winner. Eg. Under 18 Open Champion $500 as averse to Open Under 18 Girls Champion $400.

I have seen the argument put forward that girls participation numbers are far lower than boys, and therefore the prizes awarded to girls are higher proportionately compared to the number of girls in the event. I have also seen the argument that the blitz event was Open and that girls prizes were awarded as encouragement. And that girls could compete for two prizes, the Open and Girls awards.

I believe that the above arguments contradict each other. I believe that growing participation numbers among girls (and women) rely on inclusivity, and an equitable distribution of prizes. Rather than saying that less girls are playing so less prizes should be awarded, organisers should be guaranteeing girls prizes and doing their best to encourage participation. If there is to be an open division, then, of course, organisers have the right to award only prizes based on final rankings. But if a boys age group category is awarded 3 prizes, then a similar allocation should be awarded to the girls category if it is included in the prize list.

I am aware that organising and running a major event is a difficult undertaking. So I am trying to start a dialogue rather than apportioning any blame. Let’s start now, and move forward in an inclusive, equitable and diverse accepting way. I am a man, and advocating for Girls/Women as a man is something I am happy to do. But I believe that more female advocates, and women in positions of power in the chess community would be a good start.

Zoe Meredith, who missed out on a prize for coming third in the Australian Under 10 Girls Category, playing Hobart Chess Club President, Chris Shepherd

The Australian Sports Commission is trying to address this in line with States and the Government. The National Gender Equity in Sports Governance Policy sets targets that by no later than July 1st 2027:

50% of all board directors are women and/or gender inclusive

50% of chairs or deputy chairs are women and/or gender inclusive

50% of specified sub committee members are are women and/or gender inclusive

There is no reason why Australian Chess shouldn’t be aiming for similar targets. If there is a true longing for Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity within the sport then giving women more roles to promote the game and female participation must be a step in the right direction.