Why Australia needs the Aussie Athlete Fund
The Aussie Athlete Fund was founded to create a sustainable athlete economy so our next generation and those who follow, can wear the green and gold and can retire not in debt, but with the education, connections and skills required to flourish outside of sport.
Aussie Athlete Fund provides education to our athletes and their families on how to raise funds themselves to create financial sustainability. We provide opportunities for businesses and individuals to support our Aussie athletes either as one off or long term support.
Many talented athletes are denied the opportunity to pursue their dreams of representing Australia because they or their families can’t afford to fund the escalating costs of living, training and competition fees.
The requirement for international travel, equipment, coaching, food and accommodation can mean that their green and gold dreams are out of reach, especially for athletes from remote, rural and Indigenous communities.
Almost half of Australia's best athletes earn below the poverty line threshold with an annual income of less than $23,000. (Ref: ASF, 2023 research studies)
After years of investigation, engagement and passion, Nat Cook OAM OLY founded the Aussie Athlete Fund - a new innovative model to directly support aspiring elite young athletes. Nat’s own experience as a five-time Olympian, and those of her fellow elite athletes, highlight that many selected to represent Australia are hindered by finances.
$1 Million Challenge
Aussie Athlete Fund has launched a new Challenge - the $1 MILLION CHALLENGE. We will aim to pair 100 athletes with 100 businesses (corporates, small and large businesses, employees of businesses, individuals and philanthropists) who will assist the athlete in fundraising with the ultimate goal of raising $10,000 per athlete. The Challenge provides: fundraising education, inspiration by the presence and stories of our Green and Gold Greats, mentoring support, opportunities to hear from guest speakers and ongoing support throughout their journey. We are here to create a sustainable athlete economy.
Athletes
Join the $1 Million Challenge and receive fundraising education, mentoring support, incentives for hitting fundraising targets and support throughout your journey. You will be paired with a business/organisation who will assist your fundraising journey with the ultimate goal of raising $10,000 for you. Create financial sustainability for your present and future!
Get Involved
Whether you are an athlete wanting to learn how to fundraise or a business or individual interested in supporting our athletes, we want to team up with you! Find out how you can be involved as an athlete or business/individual: host a lunch, team up with an athlete or simply make a donation - make a difference today!
Meet our Greats
Our 'Greats' have proudly worn the Green & Gold for Australia and navigated this road less travelled as an athlete, from emerging to elite. They hold a wealth of knowledge, experience and stories, with a desire to make an impact to support and inspire the next generation.
As we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land, water and community, we proudly recognise the outstanding achievements of our First Nations athletes who have worn the Green and Gold, and continue to inspire those emerging.