CombatAUS is pleased to announce the election of The Hon Luke Howarth as a Director to the CombatAUS Board.
Luke brings extensive experience across government, governance, business leadership and community engagement, alongside a longstanding personal connection to combat sports through his involvement in judo.
Having served as the Federal Member for Petrie for 12 years, Luke brings significant experience in public policy, strategic oversight and stakeholder engagement. During his parliamentary career, he held several senior positions, including Assistant Minister in the Social Services and Employment portfolios, and Shadow Assistant Treasurer.
Prior to his parliamentary career, Luke was Managing Director of a family-owned pest control business employing 20 staff, providing him with practical experience in business management, organisational leadership and financial oversight.
Beyond his professional achievements, Luke has a strong personal connection to combat sports. A Sho Dan Black Belt in judo, he trained and competed for more than two decades, representing Queensland during his competitive career.
This combination of governance experience and firsthand understanding of combat sports provides a valuable perspective as CombatAUS continues to support the development and success of Australia’s Olympic combat sport athletes.
CombatAUS Chair Les Young welcomed Luke’s election to the Board.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome Luke to the CombatAUS Board. His extensive experience in government, governance and business leadership brings a valuable perspective to our organisation.
“What makes Luke’s appointment particularly exciting is his genuine connection to combat sports. Having spent more than 20 years involved in judo, he understands the discipline, commitment and resilience required of athletes, as well as the important role sporting organisations play in supporting their development.
“His experience and passion for sport will be a great asset as we continue strengthening Australia’s Olympic combat sport programs and supporting athletes on the road to Los Angeles 2028 and beyond,” Young said.
Luke Howarth said he was looking forward to contributing to the future of the Olympic combat sports in Australia.
“Judo was a significant part of my life for more than 20 years. The sport taught me lessons in discipline, respect and perseverance that have stayed with me throughout my business and political careers.
“I’m honoured to join the CombatAUS Board and to have the opportunity to give back to sports that provide so much to athletes and communities across Australia.
“Australia has tremendous talent across judo, taekwondo and wrestling, and I’m looking forward to working with my fellow Directors and the CombatAUS team to continue creating opportunities for Australian athletes to succeed on the world stage,” Howarth said.
Luke’s election further strengthens the CombatAUS Board’s collective expertise across governance, organisational leadership and sport, as the organisation continues its commitment to supporting Australia’s Olympic combat sport athletes and building sustainable performance opportunities for current and future generations.
With this appointment, CombatAUS is proud to have an even gender balance across our Board of Directors.
