Many talented young athletes are denied the opportunity to pursue their dreams of representing Australia because they or their families can’t afford to fund the escalating costs of living, training and competition fees.

The requirement for international travel, equipment, coaching, food and accommodation can mean that their green and gold dreams are out of reach, especially for athletes from remote, rural and Indigenous communities.

The facts: costs involved to compete at an elite level can be overwhelming. There's a perception that elite athletes are well paid, but that is a privilege not afforded to many.

The reality is, it’s near impossible to earn a living wage from sport, or hold down work that fits around training, competition and travel schedules.

Almost half of Australia's best athletes earn below the poverty line threshold with an annual income of less than $23,000. (Ref: ASF, 2023 research studies)

Athletes are expected to win gold medals on less than the minimum wage. Balancing elite training, competitions, recovery, work, study and day to day life often isn’t feasible. Many athletes quit, burn out or both.

Aussie Athlete Fund will help to break down the barriers faced by our emerging elite athletes by providing access to funding, fundraising education and mentoring support – easing the burden an athlete faces once selected to represent Australia.

Join us on our mission to turn Green into Gold and create a sustainable athlete economy!

We invite businesses, employees of businesses, corporates, individuals, philanthropists and everyday Australians to invest in our athletes whose sights are set on the greatest heights as they navigate their climb in the Green & Gold.

DISCLAIMER

Green & Gold Athletes Australia Ltd is not affiliated in any way with the Australian Olympic Committee, Paralympics Australia, the Australian Olympic team, the Australian Paralympic team or the Olympic or Paralympic Movement.