Historic ASC Investment Secures Golden Future for Australian Athletics

Athletics Australia welcomes the groundbreaking boost in high performance funding from the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), marking a major milestone in preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The transformative investment represents a strong vote of confidence in the sport’s performance trajectory, following the world-class results delivered in Paris 2024, with the best Olympic medals result in 70 years, standout results at the Paralympics and an unprecedented 14 medals at the World Under 20 Championships.

Athletics Australia is now positioned as one of the nation’s top-funded Olympic and Paralympic sports with a significant increase in Olympic funding, and ongoing confirmation of the Paralympic funding uplift announced by the ASC before the Paris Games.

Athletics Australia President Jane Flemming described the announcement as monumental in the sport’s history:

“This historic investment signifies a resounding endorsement of Australian athletics, not just for what has been achieved but for the immense potential that lies ahead. It is a reflection of the incredible dedication shown by our athletes, coaches and visionary leadership driving our programs.

“From the playground to the podium, this funding will ensure that athletics continues to inspire Australians of all abilities. It enables us to nurture talent, build pathways and foster an inclusive, vibrant sport that reflects the heart of Australian communities. With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon and with such a strong junior team climbing the ranks globally, this investment lays the groundwork for a golden decade of success.”

Athletics Australia CEO Simon Hollingsworth acknowledged the significance, emphasising the critical importance of the ASC’s funding in securing sustained excellence.

“This landmark funding is a game-changer for athletics in Australia, providing the resources to turn potential into podiums. It reflects the confidence the ASC has in our strategic vision and sets us on a trajectory for success for LA 2028 and beyond.

“The ASC’s commitment to Paralympic funding is particularly significant. Athletics plays a central role in delivering Paralympic outcomes, and this investment allows us to support emerging talent, expand opportunities and ensure para athletes have every chance to shine on the global stage.”

The ASC’s “Win Well” strategy, ensures Australians have access to world class pathways at every level of sport. With athletics at the forefront, this funding will drive high performance outcomes, complementing the “Play Well” strategy, which further strengthens participation initiatives and creates pathways for the next generation of athletes.

Hollingsworth further highlighted the sport’s upward trajectory:

“This investment builds on the exceptional results we’ve seen not just in Paris, but from Tokyo, Budapest, Kobe and Birmingham, and we are proud to be recognised as a cornerstone of Australia’s sporting future.

“With this historic support, Athletics Australia is primed to deliver unparalleled success on the road to LA 2028 and to inspire a nation as Brisbane 2032 fast approaches.”

By Sascha Ryner, Athletics Australia
Posted: 29/11/2024