The Australian Government through its PacificAus Sports program has partnered with the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) and Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee to support 33 elite athletes from Papua New Guinea in their preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Australia’s support will assist PNG athletes to compete across seven sports including athletics, swimming, boxing, weightlifting, taekwondo, breakdancing and rugby 7s. Australia continues its commitment to promoting greater inclusion of women and girls in sport at the highest levels and is pleased that 15 female athletes will be supported through this program. This includes weightlifting golden girl Dika Toua, long jumper Rellie Kaputin, boxing’s Sheila Yama and the women’s rugby 7s national team. Australian High Commissioner John Feakes stated that Australia is proudly investing in partnerships for elite sports in PNG through the PacificAus Sports program. “I will be keenly watching their qualifying competitions ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.” Secretary General of the PNG Olympic Committee, Desmond Kavaigu welcomed Australia’s support. “The support from the PacificAus Sports program is not just about funding; it's about building a legacy of excellence, inclusion, and friendship among our Pacific communities." Meanwhile PNG long jumper, Rellie Kaputin expressed his thanks towards Australia for their support. "I'm very grateful to again have that level of support as I prepare to represent not only Papua New Guinea, but my region at the Paris 2024 Olympics." PacificAus Sports is an Australian Government sports diplomacy initiative developing pathways for Pacific teams and athletes to compete in elite competitions and access high performance coaching in Australia and internationally.