Water Polo Australia welcomes funding boost from Australian Government

Water Polo Australia has welcomed the Australian Government’s $385.4 million sport and physical activity package announced in last night’s Federal Budget.

The Federal Budget delivered more than $158 million of new investment directly to Sport Australia and the AIS, helping to fund community participation initiatives through to additional support for Australia’s high performance athletes.

An additional $54.1 million will be invested in high performance sport for athlete pathways and wellbeing, while school and community infrastructure programs will be expanded.

Water Polo Australia CEO, Joelie Chisholm, said the new investment was designed to help both elite players as well as grow grassroots involvement.

“We are pleased to see the investment being made for both the elite programs along with grassroots programs designed to get more young people active.

“The funding will provide for improved development opportunities for aspiring and current elite athletes across the country and will see a boost in direct support grants from the AIS.

“While we need to continue to invest in our high performance athletes and coaches, it is great to also see investment in grassroots programs such as Sporting Schools, designed to get more school aged children active and involved in sports such as water polo,” said Chisholm.

The AIS will increase its annual means-tested support grants, known as ‘dAIS’ grants to athletes by more than 16% to $14 million per year. The AIS has also pledged funding towards enhanced athlete wellbeing and personal development initiatives.

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