Statement from Australian Sports Commission CEO Kieren Perkins OAM
Today’s announcement regarding the Victorian 2026 Commonwealth Games has understandably been a difficult one for many in our Australian sporting community.
18 July 2023
Today’s announcement regarding the Victorian 2026 Commonwealth Games has understandably been a difficult one for many in our Australian sporting community.
The immediate priority of the Australian Sports Commission is to ensure that our athletes, coaches, high performance and support staff are supported.
We have contacted impacted sports to offer support, which includes the AIS Mental Health Referral Network. This vital resource has also been extended to all staff at Commonwealth Games Australia.
The Commonwealth Games remains an important event for Australia.
For many of our athletes, coaches and support staff, Victoria 2026 was going to be an important stepping stone ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and for others it was to be the pinnacle of their careers.
It is also the only peak event where we can watch para and able-bodied athletes compete side by side. The impact of this in promoting inclusivity in sport and the wider community cannot be understated.
Our Community Perceptions Monitor Survey found for the majority of Australians, our athletes are a source of pride and inspiration and bring communities together.
The Australian sporting system is united through Australia’s High Performance 2032+ Sport Strategy and we will work together to ensure our athletes, coaches, and staff are supported to proudly represent Australia to the world.
Kieren Perkins OAM, CEO, Australian Sports Commission
