A morning tea was hosted recently by the Australian High Commission where they announced and celebrated grantees under round three of the Play for Equity Fund. The initiative is part of the Australian Government’s Team Up program, supporting community-led projects that advance inclusion through sport. The event was hosted by Australia’s Deputy Head of Mission Mr Adrian Lochrin who recognised the innovative and inclusive projects using sport as a platform for empowerment, inclusion, and social change. In his remarks, Mr Lochrin congratulated fund recipients and highlighted the importance of community-driven initiatives in promoting gender and disability equality and inclusion. “Your projects are powerful examples of how sport can be a force for inclusion, and community transformation,” Mr Lochrin said. “These grants are more than funding – they are a recognition of your leadership and a commitment to walk alongside you.” This third round of the Play for Equity Fund had 34 successful recipients from 10 countries from across the Pacific with the 13 grantees from Papua New Guinea receiving a combined total of K388, 000. Projects range from supporting para-athletes, empowering women to play sport in rural areas, and promoting disability, gender equality and human rights in sport. The Play for Equity Fund is part of Australia’s broader commitment to gender equality and social inclusion in PNG and Pacific, recognising the transformative power of sport to build stronger, more inclusive communities under the Australian Government’s Team Up program.