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Gujarat Seeks Australia's Olympic Expertise for 2036 Games & Renewable Energy

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel met with Australia's High Commissioner Philip Green to discuss leveraging Australian expertise for sustainable Olympic infrastructure planning, particularly looking ahead to the 2036 Games. The discussions covered post-Games conversion of facilities into public housing and training collaborations in sports like swimming. Australia invited a Gujarat delegation to Brisbane and proposed a Centre of Excellence for sports science at Deakin University in GIFT City. The talks also extended to partnerships in renewable energy, with Australia praising Gujarat's progress in the sector.

Key Points: Gujarat CM, Australia Envoy Discuss Olympic Prep & Green Energy

  • Sustainable use of Olympic facilities
  • Training in swimming & para-athletics
  • Centre of Excellence in GIFT City
  • Renewable energy partnership
  • Delegation visit to Brisbane
2 min read

Australia High Commissioner to India meets Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel meets Australia's High Commissioner to explore collaboration on sustainable Olympic infrastructure, athlete training, and renewable energy.

"enabling Gujarat's athletes to benefit from world-class training and perform strongly at the 2036 Olympic Games - Gujarat CMO release"

Gandhinagar, January 21

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed the state's willingness to draw upon Australia's experience and expertise in the long-term, sustainable utilisation of infrastructure, housing, and other sports facilities for the Olympic Games, as per a CMO release.

He shared this perspective during a meeting held in Gandhinagar with the High Commissioner of Australia to India, Philip Green OAM. With reference to the Brisbane Olympic Games scheduled for 2032, the meeting included detailed discussions on Australia's ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure, accommodation, and related facilities.

The High Commissioner elaborated on plans for the post-Games utilisation of this infrastructure, including its conversion into public housing and student hostels, as well as the use of sports grounds for other events.

The High Commissioner of Australia extended an invitation to a high-level delegation from Gujarat to visit Brisbane to observe and review the preparations. He also conveyed Australia's interest in partnering with Gujarat to offer advanced training, particularly in swimming, para-athletics, and high-performance centres.

While acknowledging the skills and excellence of Australian athletes, CM expressed optimism that progress can be made through collaborative efforts, enabling Gujarat's athletes to benefit from world-class training and perform strongly at the 2036 Olympic Games.

The High Commissioner of Australia also briefed CM on plans to establish a Centre of Excellence at Deakin University in GIFT City for sports science, sports business, and sports research, aimed at creating a comprehensive, self-sustaining ecosystem. He also invited Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to attend Deakin University's first convocation ceremony, scheduled for March 2026.

CM further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the strong and friendly relations between India and Australia, along with Australia's partnership in the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, have benefited Gujarat across sectors such as gems and jewellery, textiles, apparel and clothing, life sciences, and pharmaceuticals.

The High Commissioner of Australia commended Gujarat's leadership and rapid progress in the renewable energy sector and conveyed Australia's willingness to support the state by sharing its expertise in renewable energy transition.

He also lauded the development of solar rooftop training facilities with a capacity of 2,000 trainees at Pandit Deendayal Energy University, highlighting in particular the increasing participation and enthusiasm of women in these programmes.

The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary Ajay Kumar, Managing Director of iNDEXTb Keyur Sampat, and other officials.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good step, but I hope the focus remains on developing our own indigenous sports science and training methods too. We can't just rely on foreign expertise forever. The Centre of Excellence at GIFT City is a great start. Let's build capacity here in India.
A
Aman W
The renewable energy partnership is the real win here. Australia has great tech in solar and wind. If Gujarat can leverage that, it will benefit the whole state's development. Also great to hear about women's participation in the training programs! 👏
S
Sarah B
As someone who studied in Australia, I know their universities and sports systems are top-notch. Deakin University setting up in GIFT City is a huge deal for students. This collaboration can create so many opportunities in sports management and research.
V
Vikram M
Hope the benefits trickle down to the grassroots level. We need better swimming pools and tracks in small towns, not just high-performance centres in cities. Australia's model for post-Games use of facilities is something our urban planners should study closely.
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Karthik V
Strong ties with Australia are good for business and now for sports. The gems & jewellery and pharma sectors have already gained. This sports and renewable energy push is the next phase. Gujarat leading the way as always.

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