In a landmark move for the Australian sports industry, the government’s recent commitment to significantly bolster funding to $283 million over the next two years has garnered widespread acclaim from athletes and sporting bodies alike. This historic investment underscores a pivotal moment in the nation’s sporting landscape, promising substantial benefits across various disciplines.

Prime Minister The Hon Anthony Albanese made the announcement at the Australian Institute of Sport [AIS] alongside the Minister for Sport, The Hon Anika Wells.

The impact of this historic investment, which doubles the existing support for para sport, was not lost on the dozens of athletes in attendance, including Olympic legend Cate Campbell.

“Athletes don’t reach the pinnacle of their sport overnight,” Campbell said.

“There are years and years spent working and toiling away to get to the point where you can compete for your country, so to support up-and-coming athletes become elite athletes is so important.”

The $54.9 million additional para sport funding will address better classification opportunities, access to fit-for-purpose training environments, and specialised coaching and performance support.

Wheelchair racer Angie Ballard, who will co-captain Australia’s Paralympic team in Paris, believes the investment is essential for sustainable success.

“This is huge. I’ve been involved in para sport since I was a kid and nothing has ever happened like this,” Ballard said.

“It’s going to change the landscape moving forward. There’s going to be people that haven’t even started para sport yet that might be looking at Brisbane 2032, but they need time to develop, time to get better, and this is going to make that difference.”

The initiative has been welcomed by the Confederation of Australian Sport and the National Indigenous Sports Foundation, recognizing its potential to drive participation rates and promote diversity within sports. By addressing critical needs such as facility upgrades and athlete development pathways, the investment aims to empower communities and inspire the next generation of sporting talent.

The government’s commitment to sport is aligned with broader strategic goals of promoting active lifestyles and harnessing the economic and social benefits of sport. This comprehensive approach reflects a forward-thinking agenda aimed at securing Australia’s position as a global leader in sporting excellence and innovation.

Courtesy: Australian Sports Commission