Minister for Sport Mark Arbib said Australian Cadel Evan's historic win in the Tour de France would inspire Australia's cyclists, from our elite Olympic hopefuls to young people who rode for fitness and fun.

'Cadel Evans' inspirational effort has won him the admiration of all Australians. His win will motivate our next generation of young cyclists, both those who ride competitively and for enjoyment,' Senator Arbib said.

'And his efforts will surely provide a great inspiration for our elite cyclists leading into next year’s London Olympics.

'Cadel is only the third non-European to win in the race’s 108 year history, a momentous effort and a proud day for Australia.

'He has worked tirelessly to win the most prestigious bike race in the world after twice finishing second. Cadel has had ups and downs and but he displayed that never-give-up attitude which has put him at the top of the podium in Paris.'

Senator Arbib said more than two million Australians or almost 12 per cent of the population cycle - the vast majority in a non-organised way.

In 2010 cycling was one of the top 10 physical activities that people participated in according to the Exercise Recreation and Sports Survey.

'I hope Cadel's efforts will prompt young riders to join one of the 250 cycling clubs around Australia where they can receive coaching and assistance,' Senator Arbib said.

'The Australian Goverenment provided more than $8m to cycling this year to support both our high performance cyclists and to boost participation.

'With the Government's announcement in November of an extra $350,000 a year for cycling, Cycling Australia will work in conjunction with BMX Australia and Mountain Bike Australia to provide more cycling opportunities for novice riders to “weekend warriors".

'I hope the funding not only gets more kids away from the tv and computer and out riding bikes, but also helps us to find the next Cadel Evans.'