A Gold Coast inclusive sports initiative has received global recognition by the World Union of Olympic Cities at the 2025 Smart Cities and Sport Summit.
The Active Inclusion Program, led by Gold Coast Recreation and Sport in collaboration with City of Gold Coast, improves access to sport, fitness, wellness and recreation for people with disabilities.
"What an honour to receive the globally recognised Smart Cities and Sport Award, highlighting our city's innovative program focused on inclusivity and accessibility," said Acting Mayor Mark Hammel.
"The Active Inclusive Program is helping break down barriers by providing people with disabilities with a pathway into sport and recreation from beginners to the elite.
"It provides more than 220 programs for the community, supports innovative programs and sport and recreation industries to successfully deliver inclusive services.
"This program is ensuring that no one on the Gold Coast is left behind."
Gold Coast Recreation and Sport Inc CEO Anna-Louise Kassulke said it was an honour to be recognised on the global stage.
"The Gold Coast is proudly leading the way in redefining what sport looks like – making it accessible, connected and sustainable for everyone."
The Active Inclusion Program was developed in 2023 with the first year focusing on building community and industry capacity through mentoring, workshops and seed funding.
In the second year Allied Health Professionals were engaged and equipped with the tools to refer and support people with disabilities from grassroots participation to elite sport.
The program strengthens partnerships, breaks down barriers and creates sustainable inclusive pathways.
In the last two years the program has supported 14 grassroots and sector organisations to build capacity, and delivered 14 events and workshops that have engaged over 700 participants.
The Smart Cities and Sport Award was presented at a gala event on 22 October in Seoul, Republic of Korea.
The award celebrates innovative projects that have made tangible impacts through sport and driven positive change.
