Sukkar becomes the first woman to chair the Australian Sports Commission, one of the key sporting roles in the country.

She is the co-founder and principal of Buildcorp Group and President of Australian Women’s Rugby.

In 2019, she was appointed chair of the Sports Diplomacy Advisory Council to spearhead the Government’s Sports Diplomacy 2030 strategy.

Sukkar’s appointment was confirmed by Minister for Sport Richard Colbeck.

"For three decades, Ms Sukkar has helped lead a successful Australian family-owned business through many challenges, including the global financial crisis and most recently COVID-19," Colbeck said.

"During this time, she has also been a strong contributor to the national sporting community, most notably driving increased female participation through her involvement in Australian Women’s Rugby.

"I am delighted she will now use her experience and passion to lead Australian sport as we navigate through a COVID-safe world.”

"Sporting clubs and organisations at every level faced the most challenging of circumstances in 2020.

"COVID-19 has changed how we all participate in or watch our favourite sports.

"Ms Sukkar will play a vital part in shaping the future of sport and I look forward to working with her to ensure the sport sector in Australia is prepared, adaptable and resilient."

Sukkar will oversee Sport Australia, which is tasked with driving the broader sport sector, including participation.

Her role will also involve working with the Australian Institute of Sport, which is charged with the ongoing improvement of the nation’s high performing sport sector.

"I look forward to engaging with Australian athletes and sports organisations to address their challenges, particularly those posed by COVID-19,” Sukkar said.

"I also want to help them achieve their goals and build participation in our many sports."

Sukkar will serve a three-year term and succeeds John Wylie, who retired from the post in November.

Steve Moneghetti served as acting chair while the newly formed Sport Appointments Selection Committee assessed applications.

The committee includes Paralympic wheelchair racer and leading coach Louise Sauvage, former Matildas vice-captain Moya Dodd, Olympic and Commonwealth Games swimmer Samantha Riley and Department of Health Associate Secretary Caroline Edwards.

The committee is chaired by Warwick Smith, former Australian Minister for Sport.