Australians are being invited to buy a Virtual Torch and help light the way for inclusion across the country as Special Olympics Australia celebrates 50 years of inclusion through sport.
For 50 years, Special Olympics Australia has created opportunities for people with intellectual disability and/or autism to play, compete and thrive through sport.
Now, everyone can help shape what the next 50 years looks like.
The Special Olympics Australia Virtual Torch is a new way for people, workplaces and organisations across Australia to show their support for inclusion and help create more opportunities for athletes.
For $25, you can buy a Virtual Torch and light the way for inclusion across Australia.
Every donation helps support Special Olympics Australia and the year-round training, competition and programs that give athletes the opportunity to play, compete and thrive.
The campaign launches ahead of the 2026 Special Olympics Australia National Games, taking place in Melbourne from 19–23 October as part of the organisation’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
More than 850 athletes with intellectual disability and autism from every state and territory will come together to compete across 13 sports, supported by coaches, volunteers, officials, families and supporters.
But the National Games are just one part of the Special Olympics journey.
“Sport opens doors. It builds confidence, creates friendships and gives people the opportunity to discover what they can do,” said Special Olympics Australia CEO Jamie O’Connor.
“After 50 years, we know the impact that sport can have when everyone has the chance to take part. The Virtual Torch is a simple way for people right across Australia to show their support and help us light the way for greater inclusion through sport.”
Clubs, workplaces and community groups can also get involved by encouraging their people and networks to buy a Virtual Torch and by sharing the campaign.
Whether you buy one torch or encourage your whole workplace to get behind the campaign, every torch helps shine a light on what inclusion can look like when everyone gets the chance to play.
As we celebrate 50 years of Special Olympics in Australia, we’re looking ahead to the next 50. Help us light the way for inclusion.
Buy your Virtual Torch today at donate.specialolympics.com.au
