SSV Advisory Committee

Jacqui (Executive General Manager, Traffic Accident Commission) and Mel (Sport and Active Recreation Development Officer, Cardinia Shire) bring significant experience and expertise in their respective fields and will contribute to the School Sport Victoria Advisory Committee’s purpose of supporting the strategic management of School Sport Victoria, including strategic direction, its key programs and stakeholders’ partnerships.

Jacqui Sampson

With more than 24 years of executive leadership across the Victorian Public Sector, Jacqui Sampson is a highly regarded for leading community-focused services, organisational transformation and large-scale reform across Victoria. 

As Executive General Manager, Community at the TAC, she leads communications, community engagement, behavioural change and stakeholder relations, bringing a strong track record in strategic leadership, service delivery and community outcomes. 

Known for her authentic leadership style, strategic thinking and strong stakeholder acumen, she has successfully led teams of up to 1,000 employees while driving innovation, strengthening governance and building high-performing cultures. 

Holding qualifications in Law, Arts and Commerce, together with an Executive Master of Public Administration, Jacqui combines commercial acumen with a deep commitment to public value. She is equally recognised for her contribution to community sport and youth development, reflecting her passion for creating positive and lasting outcomes both professionally and personally.

“I have a longstanding commitment to community sport and youth development and have volunteered extensively across junior football, basketball and surf lifesaving. Through these experiences, I have seen firsthand the powerful role that schools, sport and community organisations play in building confidence, resilience, inclusion and connection for young people,” said Ms. Sampson.

 “I am particularly passionate about creating stronger partnerships between schools, families, community organisations, sporting clubs and the government to ensure young people have access to high-quality and inclusive participation opportunities. Schools are often at the centre of a young person’s development, and I believe they play a critical role in connecting students with the broader community, fostering lifelong engagement in sport and promoting health and wellbeing outcomes. By working collaboratively across sectors, we can remove barriers to participation, identify emerging talent and create programs that deliver lasting benefits for students.”

Mel Pratt

Mel is a dedicated community development professional with more than 20 years of local government experience across sport, recreation, and active living. 

She is passionate about creating opportunities that encourage participation, enhance wellbeing, and strengthen community connections. With extensive experience working alongside sporting clubs, community groups, schools, and key stakeholders, Mel is committed to supporting accessible and inclusive sport and recreation opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. 

She has a strong interest in club development, inclusion, volunteer capacity building, participation growth, and creating pathways that help communities lead active and connected lives. Mel thrives on collaboration and is driven by delivering initiatives that create positive and lasting outcomes for local communities.

"I'm excited to join the School Sport Victoria Advisory Committee because I believe school sport plays a vital role in helping young people build confidence and develop healthy habits. School sport creates opportunities for participation, inclusion, teamwork, and belonging, while strengthening connections between schools, families, sporting clubs, and local organisations," said Ms. Pratt.

"Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in local government, sport, recreation, and community development, I hope to bring a community-focused perspective and practical insights that help strengthen participation opportunities, foster collaboration across local government areas, and enhance connections between schools, sporting clubs, councils, and the broader community. I am proud to represent the local government sector and contribute to discussions that help shape and strengthen school sport across Victoria. I'm equally excited by the opportunity to collaborate with fellow committee members, share knowledge, and continue learning from others who are passionate about enhancing school sport."

School Sport Victoria has one remaining Advisory Committee position to be filled which is the School Sport Victoria member school representative - North Eastern (Eastern Metropolitan Region, Hume Region) (2 years). For further information and to nominate, see:

SSV Strategic Direction Priorities 2026-2030

SSV Advisory Committee Terms of Reference

School Sport Victoria Advisory Committee Role Description

SSV Advisory Committee Expression of Interest Form

For any queries about this process, please contact Rayoni Nelson, Chief Executive Officer, School Sport Victoria via email rayoni.nelson@education.vic.gov.au