Evolution of the Australian Institute of Sport Supplement Program over the last 25 years

Abstract

The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Sports Supplement Program, launched in 2000, promotes evidence-based, safe, and legal supplement use in Australian high-performance sport. It has evolved into a comprehensive Framework in response to regulatory change, rapid growth in supplement products, and widespread access to both information and misinformation. Founded on a “food first” philosophy, it recognises circumstances where supplements offer unique advantages: addressing nutrient gaps, providing convenience pre-, during and post-exercise, and supporting performance. Its principles were shaped to counter fragmented regulation, aggressive marketing, and athlete reliance on non-expert information sources. Central to the Framework is a dynamic ABCD classification system, categorising supplements by the strength of scientific evidence for effectiveness, safety, and anti-doping risk. Key initiatives include web-based education resources, strategic supplement provision, applied research, and robust governance—especially batch testing and integrity processes—to reduce anti-doping rule violations. The Framework now serves as a benchmark for national and international sporting bodies and has driven a cultural shift that places sports dietitians at the forefront of supplement guidance and enhances collaboration across performance support and medicine staff. Future priorities include deeper digital integration, adequate resourcing to remain contemporary, and broader athlete stakeholder engagement to maintain rigorous, evidence-informed standards.