AMPSEA calls for Victorian Government to increase funding for Mass Participation Events in wake of Commonwealth Games withdrawal

In the wake of the relinquishing of the hosting of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the Australian Mass Participation Sporting Events Alliance (AMPSEA) has today called on the Victorian Government to increase the funding of mass participation events.

In a lengthy statement published on its website, AMPSEA highlight that such support should be focussed on “the regional markets that have been directly impacted from the Comm Games fallout” noting that “we encourage event operators and suppliers to be proactive in approaching these regional areas in Victoria and bringing our expertise to the fore to fill the void and any shortfall.”

Advising that that last week's news out about the cancellation of the 2026 Commonwealth Games “took us by surprise”, AMPSEA stated “not only is it shocking that such a large-scale event can be abruptly cancelled, but it’s heartbreaking to delve further into the consequences that will be felt far and wide - particularly by the events industry.

“There are now many challenges that will be faced by stakeholders and many potential implications for future events.”

AMPSEA go on to consider a range of issues, commenting “let’s consider the financial implications.

“How much money has already been spent by the Victorian Government on an event that is never going to come to fruition?

“Not to mention the money and time invested by small businesses who were hoping to play a number of roles in the rollout of the event.

“Many of our AMPSEA members fall in to this category. Some had been working on playing a part in the organisation of the games for events including the marathon, triathlon, road cycling and race walks.  Others had invested their time and money into pitching for brand and sponsorship activations. These major events aren’t just critical for our athletes to aim for, but our industry professionals who deliver mass participation events also use events such as the Commonwealth Games as professional development opportunities.

“For athletes, the Commonwealth Games are an opportunity to showcase their talents on a global stage and earn accolades for their countries. The cancellation will be a huge blow for them, not only as it will disrupt their preparation and training schedules, but it’s just hugely disappointing to see the goals they’ve been working towards become unachievable.”

In addition AMPSEA cites factors including:

• Aside from the athletes, there are many other factors to consider:

• Time, resources and money spent by brands and event sponsors has essentially been for nothing

• Less jobs will be created for people who were counting in temporary work during the games from other industries including construction and hospitality

• The event industry workforce, including event planners, marketers, and production crews will suffer from reduced demand

• Revenue opportunities for small businesses in Victoria will be lost

• Fans who love sport and large scale events will miss out on the opportunity to be a part of an amazing event experience.

AMPSEA go on to say “overall, we know that mass participation events are the glue that holds the events industry together. Our members events are generally annual and provide enormous tourism revenue across the country and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.”

AMPSEA was formed in May 2020 by a group of industry leaders to bring our industry together as we battle through the financial impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic.

It will be staging its second annual conference in Melbourne on 28th November 2023.

Click here for more information on the 2023 AMPSEA Conference in the Australasian Leisure Management industry Calendar.