The future of the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra will be safeguarded under a Labor Government, the Shadow Minister for Sport, Senator Kate Lundy, said today.
The long-term future of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has been under a cloud since the Sports Minister, Jackie Kelly, signalled her intention to make changes to the AIS in June, following cutbacks in the May budget.
“Coalition cuts resulted in job losses at the AIS, which has already shed over 50 staff,” Senator Lundy said.
“The $16 million cut to sports funding is partly responsible for the AIS’s decision to reduce the number of full time residential athlete by 78.
“At the 2000 Olympics, over 80 per cent of medallists were in sports where AIS programs exist and almost 30 of our medals won were by current or former AIS scholarship holders.
“This is a marvellous achievement.
“The AIS began with just eight scholarship programs. In under 20 years it has grown to the point where it now offers scholarship programs in almost 30 sports. The AIS’s 65-hectare site at Bruce is now valued at over $100 million and features internationally acclaimed sport science and sports medicine facilities.
“The ALP announced on Monday that we will ensure the future of the AIS.
“This is good news for Canberra.
“Labor wants to see the AIS and the Australian Sports Commission continue to expand as international centres of excellence and training.
“The AIS will be safe in Labor hands,” Senator Lundy said.
Contact: Simon Tatz on 02-6277 3334 or 0418 488 295
