Deputy Mayor Mitchell Griffins Submits Motion for Equality in Para Olympic Grants
Maitland City Council is taking a step towards inclusivity and equal support for local athletes. Deputy Mayor Mitchell Griffins has submitted a Notice of Motion, advocating for equality between Maitland athletes competing at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The current grant program in Maitland provides financial assistance to high-achieving athletes. However, the program falls short when it comes to supporting Paralympic athletes. While Maitland athletes competing at the Olympics can receive a maximum grant of $1500, the Paralympics category offers a lower maximum amount of $750.
Deputy Mayor Griffins aims to bridge this gap by proposing that Paralympics be included in the same category as the Olympics. If the motion is successful, athletes with disabilities will be eligible to claim the same maximum amount as fully-abled athletes. This change will greatly benefit any Maitland athletes selected to compete at the 2024 Games, empowering them to pursue their dreams on an equal footing.
The Maitland City Council will discuss Deputy Mayor Griffins’ motion at their upcoming meeting on June 13. After the meeting, further updates will be provided, highlighting the council’s decision on this important matter.
This motion represents a significant step towards creating an inclusive and supportive environment for athletes of all abilities in Maitland. It sets a positive example for other communities and emphasizes the importance of equal opportunities in sports.