AIS CEO Peter Conde also acknowledged Games partners – the Australia Olympic Committee and Paralympics Australia – for the collaborative work being done to give Australian athletes the safest possible preparation and environment in Tokyo.

“Australian athletes have waited five years for the opportunity to represent their country at these postponed Tokyo Games and, for many, this chance to be an Olympic or Paralympic athlete is the culmination of a lifetime dedicated to their sport,” Conde said.

“We welcome this decision by the Australian Government because not only does it give some assurance to athletes, their support teams and their loved ones, it is also wonderful recognition that our country greatly values these athletes as ambassadors and representatives of our country.

“The Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics are sure to be like no other before them, it is an enormous logistical task. We commend the Australian Olympic Committee and Paralympics Australia for their commitment to providing the safest possible Games environment for Australian athletes.

“The AIS will continue working with our Games partners, the National Institute Network and National Sporting Organisations to give Australian athletes their very best chance of success in Tokyo.”

The Tokyo Olympics are scheduled to be held 23 July to 8 August and the Paralympics from 24 August to 5 September.