Federal Government announces funding certainty for Athletics

The success of Australia’s High Performance Athletics programs has been recognised and rewarded, with guaranteed funding from the Federal Government and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS.)

Athletics Australia CEO Darren Gocher has commended the Federal Government for investing $9.2 million into the Olympic and Paralympic Athletics programs over a two year period, stating it is due recognition of the work that has gone into creating world class programs. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of the AIS. Securing such significant funding in uncertain times like now, highlights the confidence the Federal Government and the AIS has in Athletics Australia, and that’s something to be celebrated,” Gocher said.

“This funding will be instrumental in building upon the success of the Olympic and Paralympic Athletics Teams that competed in Rio and will go far in setting up Australia for success in Tokyo and beyond.

The certainty of funding provides much relief to athletes, officials and staff planning their sporting journey at the elite level over the next two years, with Athletics Australia now being able to guarantee athletes extra support, such as coach contract extensions.

“It’s certainly a good news story when funding for our High Performance programs is guaranteed for this long. While this is unprecedented, it is much appreciated in this current environment and allows us to forward plan,” he said. 

“The guarantee also shows that the Federal Government recognises the value of investing in our sport long term, and it demonstrates the impact that Australian athletics can have on the hearts and minds of the Australian public.

“I’d like to thank the Minister of Sport, Senator Richard Colbeck and the Federal Government for investing into our sport, as well as the recognition from Sport Australia and the AIS in understanding the importance of guaranteeing funding so far ahead of time.”

In addition to securing the funding, Athletics Australia’s Paralympic High Performance program has received a funding boost of $500,000, due to the achievements of the Team at the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships, where they secured 8 gold, 6 silver and 9 bronze medals.

“We also very much welcome the increase in funding to our Paralympic High Performance program, which consistently succeeds at the elite level. Equitable funding for our programs is something we value, and we’re looking forward to seeing this program continue to impress.”

The $9.2 million in funding is part of an overall commitment of $115 million to Paralympic, Olympic and Commonwealth Games sports for the 2021/22 financial year.  

Posted: 30/10/2020