Roberts was selected in early 1981 on the basis of having achieved a World Number 1 ranking in 1980 as one of 30 athletes to receive funds under the Australian Government's National Athlete Award Scheme.

[2] Sue Roberts competed at the Perth State Titles in June 1981, lifting a World Record 165 kilos in the Deadlift and a National Record of 72.5 kilos in the Bench Press.

[3] At the 1981 Australian National Championships at Cairns, Roberts lifted a World Record 147.5 kilos.

She was named Western Australian Sports Star of the Year.

[3] She was part of the Australian team that came second at the Women's World Powerlifting Championships in the same year, winning her weight class.