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16 Mar, 2012

Australia to Host Inaugural Special Olympics Asia Pacific in 2013

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Canberra, 15 Mar 2012 — Minister for Sport, Senator Kate Lundy and Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas today congratulated Special Olympics Australia for winning the right to host the inaugural Special Olympic Asia Pacific Games in Newcastle from 30 November to 7 December 2013.

‘I know Newcastle will do a magnificent job hosting the event and I’m sure all Australians will welcome the thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers and spectators who will visit the city in December next year to mark this sporting celebration,’ Senator Lundy said.

She said the Australian Government will contribute $545,000 in funding to Special Olympics Australia in 2011-12, which includes $100,000 to support the training of volunteers. ‘All Australians should have the opportunity to participate in sport and the Australian Government’s investment and partnership with Special Olympics Australia supports this vision,’ Senator Lundy said.

Senator McLucas last year travelled to Greece with the Australian Special Olympics team as they competed at the World Games. He said, ‘The Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games will be a great opportunity to demonstrate that disability is no barrier to achieving. Special Olympics Australia provides fantastic opportunities for Australians with intellectual disability to get involved in sport, to be part of a team and meet new friends, all in a fun and supportive environment.’