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Paralympics Australia (PA) President Alison Creagh has welcomed the launch of Sport Horizon, the new National Sport Strategy (2024-2034) released on Wednesday.
The strategy, unveiled by Federal Minister for Sport Anika Wells, outlines a collaborative approach to building a thriving, inclusive and sustainable sport system that benefits all Australians—from playgrounds to podiums.
Sport Horizon will strengthen a national framework designed to ensure more people across Australia can participate in sport and physical activity in safer, more accessible environments.
With leadership, integrity, diversity, equity, inclusion, education, and development among its core focus areas, Sport Horizon brings together Commonwealth, state and territory governments, communities and sporting organisations to set a bold ambition to uplift the sporting sector to new heights over the next decade.
“Sport Horizon is a comprehensive strategy which reflects the growing need for a collaborative, inclusive and sustainable approach to sport in Australia,” Ms Creagh said.
“It sets the groundwork to build a sporting landscape where everyone, regardless of background or ability, can participate, enjoy, and excel in sport.
“Paralympics Australia applauds the Federal Government, particularly Minister for Sport Anika Wells, for demonstrating leadership and foresight in driving this initiative.”
Ms Creagh said PA is ready to meaningfully contribute to the successful delivery of the strategy and noted the strong links with PA’s own strategic plan launched last year.
“At Paralympics Australia, our mission has always been to create opportunities for people, particularly those with disabilities, to engage in sport along the pathway to elite competition,” Ms Creagh said.
“Our dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do and this strategy affirms the national importance of these values.
“By working together, we can make sport more accessible, equitable and engaging, fostering a culture where every Australian has the chance to thrive and succeed. This is our opportunity to build a legacy of excellence and inclusivity that will benefit future generations.
“The focus on high performance is also critical. We want to see Australian Paralympians continue to shine on the world stage, and Sport Horizon provides a framework to ensure that our athletes receive the support, pathways and opportunities they need to achieve excellence. This is not just about winning medals, it’s about demonstrating to the world the power of sport to inspire, unite, and elevate.”
The release of the strategy follows the historic funding announcement made by the Federal Government in June, confirming an additional $54.9 million for Paralympic sport over the next two years – the single biggest increase in Paralympic investment by an Australian Government.
By Paralympics Australia.
Published 17 October, 2024.
