The Australian government has extended its partnership with the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) to support Pacific athletes in preparing for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Tonga, which has benefited from the PacificAus Sports program, stands to gain from this continued support, helping athletes access training, coaching, and competition opportunities ahead of these major events.
AOC CEO Matt Carroll highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying, “Just as Brisbane 2032 is a home Games for Australians, it’s just as much a home Games for our Pacific athletes, and this extension of support will help Pacific athletes qualify for the major milestone events in the lead-up to 2032.”
Tonga’s Paralympic athletes are also expected to benefit, with Paralympics Australia President Alison Creagh stating, “We look forward to collaborating with the AOC, CGA, the Oceania Paralympic Committee, and its members to create impactful opportunities in the lead-up to a home Paralympic Games for the region in 2032.”
With the Brisbane 2032 Olympics approaching, Tonga remains optimistic that this extended partnership will enhance its athletes’ chances of success on the world stage.