Australia today officially launched its Australian Sports Outreach Program in the Caribbean which helps young people learn important life skills through a range of sports initiatives.

The Australian Sports Outreach Program in the Caribbean works collaboratively with governments, NGOs, schools, communities and sporting organizations to deliver programs that have a positive impact on the lives of people across the Caribbean especially children, young people and people with disability.

Speaking at the Next Step 2011 conference in Port of Spain, Trinidad, Australia’s Acting High Commissioner, Leona Landers, said the Australian Sports Outreach Program is an excellent example of Australia’s ability to deliver on its commitments to the region —quickly and effectively. 

Following its announcement last year that the size of the program would be doubled to $2.5 million, Australia is extending the Sports Outreach Program in the Caribbean to incorporate new initiatives such as support for Street20 (cricket).  Support and advice will also be provided for national Paralympic committees and the Special Olympics. 

Australia, in conjunction with its regional partners, will also build on existing successful initiatives which help children develop regular exercise habits and promote healthy lifestyles.  For example, Australia is supporting the Elementary School Physical Education initiative. 

The initiative increases physical activity and teaches young people important life skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership that will help them make a positive contribution within their communities.  The program currently reaches more than 17,500 children in Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia and Dominica. 

Australia is also supporting the Ready and Able initiative which helps more than 600 children and adults with disability in Trinidad and Tobago and St Kitts and Nevis take part in mainstream activities that they would not normally be able to access.

Reflecting on the program, Australia’s High Commissioner, Philip Kentwell, said: 'e are delighted to be drawing the Caribbean and Australia closer together through something that is dear to the hearts of both our peoples – sport. Sport is a powerful medium for encouraging leadership, inspiring confidence, developing healthy lifestyles and bringing out the best in young people.'