Sport Australia and the AIS welcome new Minister for Sport Senator the Hon. Richard Colbeck and look forward to continuing to deliver on the vision to make Australia the world’s most active sporting nation, known for its integrity, sporting success and world-leading sports industry.

Sport Australia Chair John Wylie said sport and physical activity had enormous influence on the nation’s health, education, social, economic and diplomatic outcomes.

“Sport and physical activity is a big player in this country’s success on so many levels and we look forward to working with Minister Colbeck and the Australian Government to continue building on progress that has been made since last year’s launch of the national sport plan, Sport 2030,” Wylie said.

“We believe unquestionably in the power of sport and physical activity to reflect the very best in our culture and to be a powerful vehicle for change.

“We will push on with creating active communities, especially in our schools. By teaching our children to run, throw, jump or kick, we can put them on the path to better lives.

“We will continue to encourage environments that are inclusive and welcoming for all, so that sport sets itself as an exemplar for community social cohesion.

“We will continue to build the capability of the sports industry, addressing governance reform so we bring out the very best in our sporting organisations for the benefit of all Australians.

“We must continue to inspire Australians with international success. By supporting our elite athletes with funding and expertise, we unite behind them as team Australia and show the rest of the world we are a proud and prosperous nation.”

Minister Colbeck will also take on the portfolios of Youth and Aged Care and Senior Australians.

Sport Australia CEO Kate Palmer said it complemented Sport Australia’s priority to get more Australians moving more often.

“Sport Australia, with the support of the Australian Government, is intent on raising the nation’s heart rate and creating a positive future for all Australians. We welcome Minister Colbeck’s vision that this portfolio is all about the people.

“We are getting on with our plan to get Australia moving, and that means reaching every Australian, at every age. The challenges of physical inactivity extend well beyond sport and into our education, health and the very core of our communities.

With 14 months until the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, AIS CEO Peter Conde said athlete pathways and wellbeing were primary areas of focus to create long-term sustainable success.

“Preparations are already well progressed for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics and, at the same time we are focused on the importance of building for the future so that Australians can continue to take inspiration from our international success.”