Planning and investment in judo spaces is now underwritten by hard data as Judo Australia releases its first National Mat Audit, a snapshot of the sport’s capacity to deliver safe and welcoming Judo spaces around Australia.
Undertaken during 2025 as part of Judo Australia’s commitments under the PlayWell Strategy, the National Mat Audit offers Clubs and recreation facilities a baseline to inform future planning and investment. Good data will strengthen where and how Australians access and enjoy Judo.
Findings showed 67% of clubs and dojos in Australia are able to offer their members permanent mat areas on which to train, and 65% of clubs and dojos own their own mats.
Some 78% are utilising tatami mats, and 37% have sprung floors on which to lay these mats.
While these results demonstrate solid foundations, they also highlight opportunities to improve consistency, safety and capability nationwide.
“This audit gives us, for the first time, a clear national view of how well equipped Judo facilities are around Australia, and where we need to lift our capability,” said Gareth Watkins, Judo Australia’s General Manager – Participation.
“Safe, accessible and high-quality training environments are fundamental to participation, performance and growth of Judo in Australia. “
Judo Australia will utilise this data to help our stakeholders to expand permanent, dedicated Judo spaces, and investigate ways to support cost-effective mat upgrades. The National Mat Audit will be undertaken every two years to track progress, identify specific challenges and future opportunities.
This work is central to creating safe, welcoming and fit for purpose environments that support participation and performance across the country.
