The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has welcomed the Federal Government’s investment package for Olympic sports, announced today by the Australian Sports Commission.
AOC President Ian Chesterman says the $385 million package, which includes Olympic sports, will boost Australia’s high performance and participation environments as the Olympic movement prepares for the Los Angeles 2028 Games and the home Games in Brisbane in 2032.
“We are seeing record investment at a critical time. Our thanks to Sports Minister Anika Wells and the Federal Government for this important boost.
“It is critical to have this investment now, not only to ensure our athletes can prepare for Milano-Cortina 2026, and Los Angeles 2028 but also to ensure our Australian Team can put its best foot forward at Brisbane 2032.
“For a home Games to be successful, we need a successful Australian Team and now is the time to lay the groundwork for that.
“We saw wonderful results in Paris with 18 gold, 19 silver and 16 bronze and a very successful Australian Team led by Anna Meares.
“Our planning for LA is in full swing. It presents us with some interesting challenges in terms of the spread of sports and venues.
“And we have new sports making an appearance in Los Angeles. We have cricket, lacrosse, squash, baseball/softball and flag football all on the LA program. We are looking at a Team size well in excess of 500.
“Our sports are now well placed to build on the success of Paris with today’s announcement,” Mr Chesterman concluded.
AOC Chief Executive Officer Matt Carroll says the funding for existing sports and the new sports for Los Angeles 2028 is welcomed.
“Today’s announcement sees a boost for our Olympic sports over the next 18 months after consultation with our sports over the past year critical to that outcome.
“I am grateful that the AOC was able to play an active through the Leadership Group established by the Sports Commission to land these outcomes.
“Equally, the Win Well strategy in tandem with the Play Well strategy is key to an active Australia.
“Sport has such an important role in ensuring Australia can tackle the physical and mental health challenges we face, while building community cohesion and national pride.
“With today’s announcement both our member sports and the AOC can approach the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead with confidence, “Mr Carroll said.
