FAQs

The term ‘commercial sports coach’ used in this policy refers to the teaching or coaching instructing of sport, for the purposes of conducting a business and to assist participants in the improvement of physical fitness and mental wellbeing. Engaging in such business involves the exchange of fee, reward, or payment.

The term ‘Commercial Fitness Trainer’ used in this policy refers to those people owning, managing, teaching or instructing mental wellbeing and physical fitness training for the purposes of conducting a business for exchange, reward, fee or payment.

The purpose of an annual permit for commercial sports coaches and fitness trainers who wish to use public open spaces for training is to regulate and manage the use of these spaces for commercial fitness activities.

Purchasing an annual permit provides coaches and trainers with access to the designated training areas within public open spaces. The permit fees also help to cover the cost of maintenance and upkeep of these areas.

The benefits of purchasing an annual permit include access to designated training areas, the ability to schedule sessions in advance, and the assurance that you are operating legally and in compliance with local regulations.

If you don't purchase an annual permit and continue to use public open spaces for commercial fitness activities, you may face fines or other penalties.

The cost of an annual permit varies depending on the location, group size and type of business. The duration of the permit is typically one year.

The draft fees and charges for 2023/24 are currently being exhibited as part of Council's Operational Plan. You can view the draft charges here.

This is subject to group size.

Depending on what category you apply for will determine the number of clients you can train at once, and may be limited based on the size of the designated training areas and local regulations.

Activities covered under an annual permit for commercial sports coaches and fitness trainers typically include yoga, group fitness classes, boot camps, and personal training sessions. All activities can be found in the policy.

The process and all information for applying for an annual permit is online via Sutherland Shire Council website.

Please refer to the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission website for more details www.acnc.gov.au/about