Labor congratulates all athletes representing their states at the 11th Special Olympics National Games in Adelaide this week.
The 2018 Games officially began last night with the arrival of the torch relay at the Opening Ceremony. Competition begins today and will run until April 20.
More than 1000 athletes with intellectual disabilities will compete across 11 sports, with Australian Rules football also part of the program as an exhibition sport.
The first National Games were held in 1986 and are now run every four years.
Special Olympics Australia, which was founded in 1976, provides year-round training in sports, helps to raise awareness for the almost 600,000 Australians living with intellectual disabilities and gives them opportunities to reach their personal best in sport and life.
The competition is also an important step for those preparing for a spot at the World Games in Abu Dhabi next year.
Following the largest integrated para-sports program in Commonwealth Games history on the Gold Coast earlier this month, the Special Olympics National Games are another example of the value of sport as a powerful vehicle for inclusion.
To find out more about the Special Olympics National Games including the games schedule, team and ticketing information or other ways to get involved, visit the Special Olympics website at www.specialolympics.com.au