Athletes across Australia face a common challenge: securing the funds needed to compete at their best. The $1 Million Challenge, powered by Aussie Athlete Fund in partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation, is here to change that. This initiative pairs 100 athletes with 100 businesses, each working together to raise $10,000 to support the athlete’s sporting journey.

Why the Challenge Matters

Almost half of Australia’s top athletes earn less than $23,000 a year, placing them below the poverty line. Yet, they are expected to compete at the highest level while balancing training, competitions, work, study, and daily life. Many quit, burn out, or struggle to make ends meet. 

Aussie Athlete Fund, founded by five-time Olympian Natalie Cook, is committed to creating a sustainable athlete economy - one that supports athletes, not just when they wear the Green & Gold, but also as they transition beyond sport.

In 2024, the Aussie Athlete Fund helped many of Australia's Paris 2024 Olympians and Paralympians secure vital donations, including bronze medallist Natalya Diehm, Jeff Dunne and Brayden Foxley-Conolly.

Australian Sports Foundation CEO, Sue Hunt, added:

“The financial burden on Australian athletes is immense, and too often, it forces talented individuals out of sport. The $1 Million Challenge is a powerful initiative that directly tackles this issue, bringing businesses and athletes together to ensure our athletes can focus on performance, not just survival. The Australian Sports Foundation is proud to support this effort and help build a stronger, more sustainable future for Australian sport.”

2024 Success: Over $550,000 Raised for Athletes

In 2024, the $1 Million Challenge:

• Supported 100 athletes across 40 sports and 47 disciplines.
• Paired 43 athletes with 34 businesses.
• Raised more than $550,000 to support athletes.

Now, the challenge is on to make 2025 even bigger.

Why Join the Challenge?

Athletes who take part receive more than just financial support. The $1 Million Challenge provides:

• Education modules
• Mentoring and guest speaking opportunities
• Fundraising support and incentives for hitting financial targets

Best of all, athletes won’t go it alone. Businesses, employees, and individuals will work alongside athletes to fundraise and equip them with the skills and confidence they need to achieve financial sustainability in their careers.

Who Can Apply?

Athletes

Applications are open to sportspersons of all ages who:

• Are Australian citizens
• Are members of a national team
• Compete in a sport recognised by the Australian Sports Commission
  

Apply before the 31st of March 2025.

Businesses & Supporters

All businesses, big and small, along with individuals and philanthropists are invited to take part. If you’re willing to team up with an athlete to help them raise $10,000 (May-October), this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

Submit your expression of interest.

Start Fundraising Today

Not eligible for the $1 Million Challenge but still interested in fundraising? Start your journey today with the Australian Sports Foundation.