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Nic Goard, Fox Sports Australia’s Head of Sport and Content Partnerships, on why parental leave is more than just a policy
At Foxtel Group, we know that creating a high-performing culture isn’t just about the work – it’s about the people.
When employees feel supported in both their careers and personal lives, they’re more engaged, more productive, and more likely to stay and grow within our business.
That’s why we encourage all eligible parents – mothers, fathers, and caregivers – to take parental leave.
Nic Goard, Fox Sports Australia’s Head of Sport and Content Partnerships, almost didn’t take parental leave when his first child was born.
“Six years ago, I only found out about parental leave because a colleague mentioned it,” Nic shares. “Now, people talk about it more, but I still see people surprised that they’re eligible.”
Nic’s experience not only has strengthened his bond with his daughters but also enabled his wife to return to work with peace of mind. He believes more people should be aware of their options and consider the benefits of taking parental leave.
With over a decade of experience at Foxtel Group, as Head of Sport and Content Partnerships Nic leads the development and management of strategic partnerships that maximise commercial value across our Fox Sports, Kayo Sports, and Foxtel brands. As the key contact for both international and domestic sports rights holders, as well as agencies, his role keeps him at the heart of sports broadcasting.
His career has been filled with exciting opportunities, but one of his proudest achievements is finding the balance between professional success and being present for his family.
“In my job, the hours can be unpredictable, especially with the international nature of sports broadcasting. But since becoming a Dad, I’ve made it a priority to be there for my kids. It’s a constant learning process, but it’s something that I’m really proud of,” he says.
In addition to paid parental leave offered by the government, Foxtel Group provides up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for primary caregivers, and up to 4 weeks of paid parental leave for secondary caregivers.
We also provide up to 10 paid ‘Keeping in Touch Days’ during parental leave, giving staff the option to upskill, reskill or refresh their knowledge before returning and supporting a smooth transition back to work.
When Nic first learned about Foxtel Group’s Parental Leave Policy from a colleague, he was intrigued.
After researching the policy and discussing it with his leaders, he decided to take parental leave when his first child was born – a decision he says was fully supported by his team.
“The experience was so positive that when my second child came along, it was an easy decision to do it again,” Nic explains. “Having that time with my daughters, particularly in those formative first years, was invaluable.”
From HR guidance to leadership encouragement, Nic felt fully supported throughout his parental leave.
“My leaders, Adam Howarth, Director of Content Acquisitions and Sport Partnerships and Rebecca McCloy Executive Director – Commercial Sport, were fantastic,” he says.
“They gave me the space I needed to focus on my family without any pressure to return early. Knowing I had their backing made a huge difference. And when I did come back, the FoxFlex model made it easier to integrate work and family life.”
Foxtel Group’s FoxFlex model underpins our approach to flexible working. Wherever possible, we provide hybrid work and flexible hours to support work-life balance, caring responsibilities and employee wellbeing.
Nic found that taking parental leave enabled him and his wife more flexibility on when she would like to return to work, balancing the responsibilities between them.
His biggest takeaway? Fully embracing the opportunity.
“It took a couple of weeks to fully switch off from work, but once I did, it was the best decision.“
For fathers considering taking parental leave, Nic has one message.
“Take the time and run at it 100 kilometres per hour – it’s invaluable for both you and your family. It’s an incredible opportunity that not only makes you a better Dad but also a better person. The relationship I have with my daughters is so much richer because of it. Embrace it, you won’t regret it.”
At Foxtel Group, we’re committed to supporting all parents and carers throughout their journey, ensuring they have the flexibility and encouragement to balance work and family life and creating a workplace environment where everyone can thrive. Parental leave isn’t just a policy – it’s good for people, good for business, and good for our community.