This presentation will provide an overview of the determinants of female athletic performance including the contribution of participation, injury prevention, program prescription and training environment, as well as talent identification, and profile. A focus on sports science & sports medicine will explore current trends in female athlete research. Particular attention will be given to the interaction of hormonal contraception with performance and provide current knowledge and remaining questions in this area of research. Details of the Australian Institute of Sport’s Female Performance & Health Initiative will be presented and details of the vision, mission, and three pillars of focus will be explored.