Kate Lundy Appointed Australia’s New Minister for Sport

Kate Lundy has been appointed as Australia’s new Minister for Sport, a high-profile role with the London Olympics less than six months away. 

The 44-year-old replaces Mark Arbib, who unexpectedly resigned last month claiming he wanted to spend more time with his young family.

“As the incoming Sport Minister I hope to continue the good work progressed by Minister Arbib,” said Lundy, who represents the Australian Capital Territory, including the capital Canberra.

“Particularly as we lead up to the Olympics and Paralympics. Minister Arbib has been an outstanding Sport Minister and has left a strong legacy. I have always been passionate about the capacity of sport to forge communities, build acceptance and overcome social boundaries.”

Lundy had been Australia’s Shadow Sports Minister between 1998 and 2007 only to be surprisingly dropped from the front bench when Labor were elected to Government and replaced as Minister for Sport and Minister for Youth by Kate Ellis.

Lundy’s new portfolio will also include Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Minister Assisting for Industry and Innovation.

But there is little doubt that sport will provide her with her highest profile role.

“Sport is far more than the sum of its parts and is a critical area of social policy,” she said.

“As Minister, I look forward to championing the power of elite sport to inspire and community sport to promote participation, inclusion and a sense of belonging in the community.”

Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) President John Coates claimed he ”couldn’t be more pleased” that Lundy had won the position. 

He also vouched for the Labor senator’s ”thorough knowledge of the portfolio” after her time as Shadow Minister for Sport.

”There will be no catch-up required,” Coates said.

”I expect Kate will hit the ground running and we look forward to working with her.”

by Ismail Uddin