Minister for Sport Mark Arbib today paid tribute to the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, after it was awarded the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Trophy for Sport and Social Responsibility.

Each year the IOC launches a trophy, with each National Olympic Committee having the responsibility of identifying and selecting a recipient in its country.

Minister Arbib said the Australian Olympic Committee’s recognition of the NCIE was a tribute to the organisation’s hard work.

“The IOC Trophy is awarded for the promotion of social development programs and the NCIE has clearly positioned itself at the forefront of in this important area,” Senator Arbib said.

“The NCIE has made an incredible impact since it was opened in 2010, with thousands of Indigenous people from across Australia having accessed its fantastic facilities.

“The Centre offers a range of services including educational, sporting and recreational activities, all of which are having significant impacts on the lives of Indigenous people.

“The NCIE’s programs promote an active and healthy lifestyle, while also giving each participant a clear pathway to achieving improved learning, recreation and employment outcomes.”

NCIE Chief Executive Officer Jason Glanville said his whole team was thrilled with the recognition.

“Since our opening in February last year the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence has worked with our Pathway Partners to develop and deliver life-changing programs to more than 10,000 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians,” Mr Glanville said. 

“We would like to thank the International and Australian Olympic Committees for their support and recognition of our work.”

AOC President John Coates said sport played an important role in enriching the lives of young Australians.

“I am delighted that the International Olympic Committee has recognised the excellent work of the NCIE in our Indigenous community by awarding them this trophy,” Mr Coates said.

“Indigenous athletes have played and continue to play a vital role in Australia’s Olympic history through their membership of our Olympic Teams over the years across a diverse range of sports.”