| Tennis West CEO Olivia Birkett has released a new affiliation fee structure at a time when many Western Australian tennis clubs are confronting falling membership, volunteer fatigue and rising operating costs.
The question is not simply whether fees have increased. It is whether Tennis West understands the financial position of each club and can demonstrate the value being delivered in return.
The warning signs cannot be ignored. Fremantle Tennis Club, one of WA tennis’s most historically significant institutions, has surrendered its independent operating arrangements as the City of Fremantle progresses a new structure involving the tennis, bowling and workers’ clubs. It is not evidence that the club has ceased playing, but it should prompt serious questions about club sustainability.
Tennis West says club satisfaction reached 7.9 in its 2026 survey and describes its relationship with clubs as a “two-way process”. Yet Court Talk continues to hear a different experience from some clubs.
Royal King’s Park Tennis Club, one of Tennis West’s largest financial contributors, says it has not received an official club visit from a Tennis West representative for more than three years.
Committee members and presidents change regularly. When expectations are not documented, clubs may continue paying affiliation fees without knowing what services, visits or growth support they should demand.
Court Talk has therefore distributed a checklist encouraging every affiliated club to ask:
| What clubs should expect |
What clubs should request |
| Regular personal engagement |
A scheduled annual club visit |
| Membership development |
A documented growth plan |
| Participation support |
Programs with measurable targets |
| Facility guidance |
Funding and council advocacy |
| Financial accountability |
A clear breakdown of affiliation value |
| Follow-through |
Named contacts and agreed actions |
Tennis West staff exist to serve and strengthen WA tennis. Clubs should no longer accept affiliation without accountability.
Sources: Tennis West affiliation commitments and published fees, Tennis West 2026 club satisfaction report, City of Fremantle council agenda.
Ask your committee to complete the Court Talk Tennis West Club Support Checklist—and tell us what your club receives for its fees. |
