Introducing Learn to Play Memberships
From Term 4, 2026, Illawarra Basketball Association will be introducing Learn to Play Memberships across selected Development Programs.
This change ensures players participating in our Development Programs are registered members of both Illawarra Basketball Association (IBA) and Basketball NSW (BNSW).
Why are we introducing Learn to Play Memberships?
We want to ensure that players participating in our Development Programs are formally registered within the basketball community and have access to the benefits that come with IBA and Basketball NSW membership.
Basketball NSW Membership and Insurance
The Learn to Play Membership registers players with Basketball NSW as part of their participation.
Basketball NSW membership provides access to its insurance arrangements. If an injury unfortunately occurs, registered participants may be able to make a claim through Basketball NSW, subject to the applicable policy terms and conditions.
Illawarra Basketball Association Membership
Players also become members of Illawarra Basketball Association.
IBA membership provides members with associated membership rights, including the ability to vote at the IBA Annual General Meeting, where applicable.
This means players aren’t just attending a basketball program – they are becoming part of the IBA basketball community.
Who does this apply to?
The new Learn to Play Membership will apply to players participating in the following programs:
- Mini Hawks – Ages 3-5
- Next Gen Hawks – Ages 10-14
- Next Gen Kitty Hawks – Girls-only, ages 10-14
- Elite Hawks Training – U12-U18 Rep and Non-Rep players who are not already IBA members
Already an IBA member?
If you are already an IBA member, you will not need to purchase an additional Learn to Play Membership for these programs.
What about Ford Aussie Hoops: Hawks Take Flight?
Ford Aussie Hoops: Hawks Take Flight is not included in this new Learn to Play Membership requirement.
The program has its own term-by-term membership fee due to the way it is structured through Basketball NSW and Basketball Australia.
How will it work?
The process will be simple for families.
When registering for one of the applicable Development Programs, the Learn to Play Membership will automatically be added to your term registration.
At checkout, families will be able to choose their preferred membership length:
Annual Membership – $40
Six-Month Membership – $30
The selected membership will then be included in the total registration cost.
Why has my registration cost increased?
If you notice an increase in the total cost of your Development Program registration from Term 4, this is due to the introduction of the Learn to Play Membership.
The membership is being introduced to ensure applicable Development Program participants are registered members of IBA and Basketball NSW.
What do I need to do?
Nothing extra.
Simply register for your selected Development Program as usual. If a Learn to Play Membership is required, it will automatically be included in your registration, and you can select your preferred membership length at checkout.
We look forward to continuing to grow our Development Programs and providing a positive, safe and connected basketball experience for all of our players and families.