IGA is proud to announce it is a Major Partner of the 2026 Special Olympics Australia National Games and helping fuel sporting performance by providing food and grocery supplies for athletes throughout the event.
Taking place at sporting venues across Melbourne, from 19 to 23 October 2026, the National Games will bring together athletes with intellectual disability and/or autism from across the country in a celebration of sport, achievement and inclusion. Athletes will compete across 12 sports throughout the National Games, with the event being particularly significant as Special Olympics Australia celebrates its 50th anniversary.
As part of its commitment to the Games, IGA is coordinating the supply of food and refreshments for athletes, made possible through the generous support of a range of supplier partners who have donated products to help keep competitors nourished throughout the week.
The contribution reflects IGA's long-standing commitment to supporting people with intellectual disability and autism through its partnership with Special Olympics Australia, which has spanned more than three decades. Through IGA's Community Chest program, retailers, suppliers and shoppers have helped create opportunities for athletes to train, compete and thrive in their local communities.
Helen Kealy, Metcash’s Senior Marketing Manager for Community, Partnerships and Sponsorships, said the National Games represents the very best community spirit and inclusion.
"IGA has proudly supported Special Olympics Australia for 34 years, and we're honoured to play a role in helping bring the 2026 National Games to life. Sport has the power to build confidence, create connections, and celebrate the incredible abilities of athletes. We’d like to thank our supplier partners for their generous donations towards the Games, we couldn’t be fuelling these amazing athletes without you. This partnership reflects what IGA stands for, supporting local communities and making a positive difference where it matters most."
Special Olympics Australia CEO Jamie O’Connor said IGA’s support would make a real difference for athletes at the National Games.
“The National Games are a major highlight for our athletes, especially in our 50th anniversary year. They’ve put in the work to get here, and now they get to compete against athletes from across Australia, with their families, friends and supporters cheering them on. Thanks to IGA and its supplier partners, our athletes will be well-fuelled and ready to give their best. We’re proud to have IGA behind our athletes and our movement, and grateful for the difference they’ve made to so many athletes and families over the years.”
IGA and Special Olympics Australia would like to extend their thanks to the following suppliers for their support: Arnott’s, Baiada, Carman’s, Coca Cola, Don, Golden Circle, Goodman Fielder, Heinz, JL King & Co, Nestle Kit Kat, LCMs, Mars, Primo, One Harvest, Rain Fresh, Real Dairy Australia, Snackbrands Australia, Sorbent, SPC Global, Sunbeam, Sustagen and Uncle Tobys.
