The WOA Grant Program gives Olympians the opportunity to receive up to $5000 USD ($7633 AUD) to help drive sustainable projects and initiatives which benefit either fellow Olympians or their communities.

Torino 2006 and Vancouver 2010 Olympian Hannah Campbell-Pegg’s project aims to improve climate change education amongst Australian athletes.

London 2012 BMX rider Khalen Young’s ‘Karlup Wheels In Motion’ Indigenous Corporation encourages kids to participate and have fun on wheels – riding a bike, skateboard or scooter.

Gymnast Stephanie Moorhouse (Athens 2004) has developed a program aimed at creating conversations and awareness around developing body and self-confidence in young females.

While Tokyo 2020 Olympic Hockeyroo Savannah Fitzpatrick’s project is focused on building the connection between past and present hockey Olympians.

AOC President Ian Chesterman said he is looking forward to seeing these programs develop and flourish over the next 12 months.

“Australian Olympians continue to play such an important role in the community, spreading the values of Olympism both on and off the playing field,” Mr Chesterman said.

“I am thrilled see the WOA has identified and rewarded four Australian Olympians on their respective initiatives, and I congratulate each of the Olympians on their success.

“I look forward to seeing their projects continue to thrive with the assistance of the WOA grant.”

Dual Winter Olympian Hannah Campbell-Pegg said she excited to be given the opportunity to work further on a project she is so passionate about.

“The Carbon SportsPrint Education program is directed at Australian athletes, to educate them on the impacts of climate change on sport and the positive impact they themselves can have towards sustainable sport,” Hannah said.

“As a Winter Olympian, I have seen the devastating effects of climate change on the environment that surrounds my sport, and on winter sports in general. And I think as sports people, it is vital that we acknowledge, support and protect the environment that we are a part of.

“I am so grateful to have received this grant from the WOA as it will greatly assist in the creation, training and delivery of this program.”

2012 Olympic BMX cyclist Khalen Young said the grant will enable his project to continue to thrive.

“Karlup Wheels in Motion Indigenous Corporation unites and inspires youth within our community by encouraging inclusiveness and diversity through complimentary sporting clinics and embolden lore connected to identity of country,” Khalen said.

“The aim of my program is to create a pathway of opportunity in sports for less fortunate youth and promote the connection between physical and mental fitness.

“I felt a feeling of support and gratitude when I found out I had received the WOA grant funding, the money will be used to maintain the program and show the community a reputable support system such as the WOA backs our mission.”

Australian Olympians Association co-chair Lousie Dobson OAM OLY said there was significant interest from Australian Olympians with 26 high quality projects submitted by AOA for consideration by WOA.

“We are thrilled that four Australian Olympians will have their projects supported by WOA and we thank them for their support on behalf of all Australian Olympians.

“We are continuing to develop our programs to recognise and support Australian Olympians and the work they do in the community long after their sporting careers have concluded and these four projects are great examples of the impact Olympians can have.”

The Olympians now have 12 months to deliver their respective projects.