The School Sport Unit promotes and supports the implementation of appropriate sport and sport-focused programs for all students by encouraging participation, skill development and excellence in performance.

Mechanisms are provided through which opportunities for student participation in sport are offered at school, area, state and national levels. Students displaying outstanding skills have the opportunity for selection in national teams to compete at the international level and be involved in the Talented Athlete Program conducted in conjunction with the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation.

The coordination of large scale school sporting events at state and national levels is an ongoing Unit responsibility which was showcased in the Year 2000 by the organisation and conduct of the Pacific School Games using the Sydney 2000 Olympic venues.

The Unit coordinates the School Swimming Scheme providing a learn-to-swim program for over 100,000 primary students each year, and focus programs to encourage participation in sport at grass roots level