Inclusion, diversity and athletic prowess were on display at the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships held in Brisbane.

The Albanese Government invested $460,000 to support the delivery of the Championships, hosted by Sport Inclusion Australia in partnership with Queensland Athletics.

There was a full track and field program, including youth events for athletes with an intellectual impairment, providing an opportunity to experience international competition and build a passion for physical activity and sport.

Eleven world records fell in the event’s opening two days highlighting the level of athlete and competition.

Held from 8-15 October, it was the first time in 20 years the event was in Australia, bringing hundreds of elite athletes together from more than 30 different nations.

The event was the third Virtus athletics competition held in Brisbane, following the 2019 Virtus Global Games and 2022 Virtus Oceania Asia Games.  

The Albanese Government is committed to hosting inclusive sporting events in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, supporting greater participation and inclusion in line with the national sport strategy, Sport Horizon.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Sport, Anika Wells:

“We are committed to building safe, inclusive and competitive sporting environments for all Australians and I’m proud the Albanese Government supported this year’s Virtus World Athletics Championships in Brisbane.

“These Championships were about more than just competition – they are a celebration of inclusion and diversity, highlighting the Albanese Government’s commitment to wide participation in sport as part of the national sport strategy.

“The 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships are yet another exciting international event in the lead up to Brisbane 2032.”