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The Federal Government has signalled a coupling of sport and diplomacy as it looks to harness Australia's sporting prowess and advance the national interest.

In response to the first periodic review of 2019's Sports Diplomacy 2030 strategy, the Government is giving national sporting organisations and peak bodies a seat at the table, reflecting their central role in advancing Australia's interests through sport.

Under the new arrangements, a number of internationally-focused national sporting organisations and peak bodies are being invited to join a new Sports Diplomacy Consultative Group, coordinated by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

This will provide a regular forum to discuss strategic and economic opportunities and risks in international sport, including upcoming events in Australia and offshore, and the ways in which government and the sport sector can work together to advance shared priorities.

This group replaces the Sports Diplomacy Advisory Council, in response to review consultations that indicated a consultative mechanism would provide stronger links between key sporting organisations and the Government.

The Consultative Group will be complemented by a newly-established Annual Sports Diplomacy Roundtable, where a broad range of stakeholders from the sports sector will be invited to participate and share their perspectives to help shape the future of sports diplomacy.

The Federal Government is also updating the Sports Diplomacy 2030 strategy, to maximise Australia's advantage from the ‘green and gold decade’ of major sporting events in Australia leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The updated Strategy will also ensure Australia's sports diplomacy approach aligns with the new National Sport Strategy, currently being developed by the Office for Sport in the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong (above) notes "Sport is one of Australia's strengths" adding "this new approach will see greater partnership and coordination between our diplomats and our sports diplomats."

Federal Minister for Sport, Anika Wells added "Sport bonds people, providing a powerful platform for strengthening communities here and abroad while also promoting our national interests on the global stage.

"As we head towards Brisbane 2032, we will be hosting some of the world's largest sporting events, providing us with an unprecedented opportunity to showcase Australian excellence and expertise in innovation, tourism, services and products."

Cricket Australia Chief Executive, Nick Hockley advised "Cricket Australia supports strengthening Australia's international standing and advancing our national interests through a long-term Sports Diplomacy Strategy.

"The initiative aligns with our strategic objective to support the growth of the game globally, while facilitating bilateral trade and investment opportunities and strengthening people-to-people links through the power of sport."

Tennis Australia Chief Executive, Craig Tiley shared "the emotion, drama, and humanity of sport have a unique power to bring people together like few other things can. Major sporting events, such as the Australian Open, captivate global audiences and create shared experiences that transcend borders and cultures, enabling us to connect with other nations on a deeper level.

"We look forward to working with the government on establishing a new sports diplomacy group to help enhance international relations as well as promote mutual understanding and collaboration. By harnessing the unifying power of sport, we can build bridges and foster goodwill among diverse communities worldwide."

Image top: Australian Open; image above: Federal Minister Penny Wong

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