The Hon Rod Kemp was Minister for the Arts and Sport from Friday 23 November 2001 to Tuesday 30 January 2007. This site is available for archival purposes only.

AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR DEAFLYMPIC GAMES

The Australian Government today signed a $4 million funding agreement with the 20th Deaflympic Games (M2005 Games).

The M2005 Games will be held in Melbourne from 5-16 January 2005. More than 3500 athletes from some 90 countries will compete in 15 individual and team sporting events in and around Melbourne and also in Ballarat.

The Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, said the Australian Government has now signed an agreement with the organisers of the Deaflympics, giving formal recognition to the Government's commitment to provide $4 million in funding for the staging of the Games. The Australian Sports Commission has also provided $150,000.

'This substantial contribution recognises the 2005 Deaflympic Games as a significant event for Australians generally, and for Australia's Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in particular.'

Senator Kemp said the Deaflympic Games also provided a great opportunity for the Australian and Victorian Governments to work together to showcase Australia's ability to successfully stage world-class international sporting events.

'It is the first time the Deaflympics have been held in Australia and it will give Victorians and Australians an opportunity to get a taste of international competition prior to the 2006 Commonwealth Games,' Senator Kemp said.

'I encourage all Australians to get behind these athletes and join me in supporting the Deaflympic Games in Melbourne in January.'

CANBERRA 23 June 2004

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Media contact: Richard Wise, 02 6277 7350 or 0438 204 554