Australian Government's $513 million investment in sport

Equestrian Australia has today welcomed the Australian Government's $513 million investment in sport, announced by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), as a strong commitment to Australian athletes on the road to Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032.

The two-year funding package, which includes high performance funding for 68 sport programs and the continuation of direct athlete support (dAIS), will provide Equestrian Australia's elite able bodied and para-athletes and coaches with the funding required to compete and perform at the highest level on the world stage.

The funding announcement also included the continuation of historic investment in Para sport, with $54.9 million committed over the next two years to improve classification opportunities, access to fit-for-purpose training environments, and specialised coaching and performance support for Para athletes.

Equestrian Australia Chair, Nicholas Ballard thanked the Australian Government and particularly Sports Minister Anika Wells, for their continued investment and for backing our athletes who inspire our nation.

Acting CEO Ben Houston thanked the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Institute of Sport for their continued support provided to Equestrian Australia and the High-Performance program.

"The Win Well Strategy understands that winning on the world stage doesn't happen by accident, and this investment reflects a growing appreciation of the unique demands of the Olympic and Paralympic sport environments."

Equestrian Australia High Performance Director Will Enzinger welcomed the ongoing investment in Able bodied and Para athletes and the opportunities it will create for current and emerging equestrian athletes.

“The continued commitment to sport is creating stronger pathways and better support structures for athletes at every stage of the high-performance journey. This investment will help ensure our equestrian athletes have access to the expertise, environments and opportunities they need to perform at their best when it matters."

Equestrian Australia acknowledges the significant work undertaken by its staff, Board, and State Branches in partnership with the Australian Sports Commission to secure and maintain National Sporting Organisation (NSO) status. This collaborative effort has been critical in ensuring the sport remains well positioned to access high-performance funding and support opportunities for athletes, coaches and the broader equestrian community.

Equestrian Australia looks forward to continuing to work closely with the ASC and the Australian Institute of Sport to make the most of the opportunities this investment creates for athletes, coaches and the broader equestrian community in the pathway to Brisbane 2032.