Sport Inclusion Australia proudly announces it has secured support through the ASEAN-Australia Centre Grants Program to advance its global EmpowerHER Through Sport initiative.

The organisation joins eight other Australian groups chosen to implement initiatives that advance the Centre's goal of building stronger ties and mutual awareness between Australia and Southeast Asia.

This effort will connect sporting bodies, experts and local groups from Australia and Southeast Asia to exchange insights on promoting inclusion in sport, with a focus on women and girls living with disability.

Women and girls with disability encounter additional obstacles to sport and social involvement worldwide, such as scarce access, societal prejudice and restricted routes to leadership roles. Participation in sport helps overcome these hurdles by fostering self-assurance, relationships, acceptance and avenues for guidance.

Chief Executive Chantel Lewis noted that the initiative aligns with the group's dedication to fostering inclusive societies and expanding sport-based prospects locally and regionally.

"This initiative offers a chance to reinforce bonds between Australia and Southeast Asia while collaborating to expand inclusive sport options for women and girls with disability," Ms Lewis stated.

"Both regions can gain valuable perspectives from each other. Through the exchange of insights, stories and workable approaches, partners can develop more welcoming sport settings, enhance leadership routes and establish enduring links that outlast the project itself."

"Sport serves as a strong catalyst for societal progress. By exchanging knowledge across the region, we can advance the creation of environments where more women and girls with disability feel welcomed, valued and inspired to take part, contribute and guide."

The work will be guided by International Engagement Advisor Robyn Smith OAM, whose extensive career spans sport development in Australia and abroad.

"In today's interconnected environment, athletes represent their nations globally while Australian communities reflect cultural variety and ties to ASEAN nations," Ms Smith remarked.

"As the national body for athletes with intellectual impairment, maintaining links to worldwide discussions, concepts and progress remains essential."

Sport crosses national boundaries and provides scope to strengthen inclusion practices domestically while assisting partners across Asia.

Sport Inclusion Australia expresses gratitude to the ASEAN-Australia Centre for backing EmpowerHER Through Sport and for its broader contribution to fostering ties, insight and joint efforts between Australia and Southeast Asia via such programs.