AMPSEA heads to Canberra to present need for stimulus package for mass participation events

Representatives of the Australian Mass Participation Sporting Events Alliance (AMPSEA) were in Canberra on Thursday to present the group’s call for a $220 million stimulus package to, as it says “ensure our industry can survive”.

AMPSEA Directors Chris Heverin and Lisa Dowsett along with former Australian Institute of Sport Director, Rob de Castella met with the offices of the Federal Minister for Sport, Federal Minister for Tourism and the Parliamentary Running Group.

On social media, AMPSEA advised “the Australian mass participation sporting events industry is on its knees and is declining rapidly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Quite simply, we need financial help from the Australian Government before we lose one of our most important sectors (so) we're seeking immediate Government support, acting as a united voice for Australian companies who deliver mass participation sporting events.”

The group added “with other industries such as the arts, zoos, and live events gaining funding we are pleading - why not the mass participation events industry?”

Campaign to engage MPs
AMPSEA is now advising its members to contact their local MP to raise awareness and garner support for the sector’s employers, employees and participants.

In a later social media post AMPSEA added that it needs “members help to campaign (to) government to help our industry not only get through this difficult time, but to have the confidence to start once again creating life changing experiences for all Australians.”

To achieve this AMPSEA has provided a pro forma letter for stakeholders to complete and forward to their MPs.

AMPSEA was formed in May 2020 by a group of industry leaders including event organisers, suppliers and supporters to provide a united voice for Australian companies who deliver mass participation sporting events

Aiming to support the industry to survive the current financial crisis its purpose is to find a way to return to the delivery of mass participation sporting events during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Click here to view and take action on the AMPSEA MP's letter.

Lower image: AMPSEA representatives in Canberra.