Right now, disability schools across Australia are forced to return their Sporting Schools funding because the program does not offer activities that meet their students' needs. While traditional sports like AFL and soccer are included, Dance Fitness—an accessible and beneficial movement program—is excluded. This means children with disabilities are missing out on opportunities for physical activity that suit their abilities.

Why This Matters:

Special needs schools invest heavily in occupational therapy, physical therapy, and tailored movement programs to support their students.

Dance fitness (like Zumba Kids) helps children develop motor skills, coordination, confidence, and social engagement—in ways that traditional competitive sports may not.

If a school cannot find a suitable activity in the program, their funding is lost. This is unfair and goes against the principles of inclusivity.

What We’re Fighting For:

We call on Sporting Schools and the Australian Government to:

1. Recognize Dance Fitness as an eligible activity in the Sporting Schools program.

2. Involve AusActive, the national fitness governing body, to establish guidelines for including dance-based movement programs.

3. Ensure disability schools can use their funding for activities that truly benefit their students' physical and mental well-being.

Join us in making movement accessible for all! Sign this petition and help us push for real inclusivity in Sporting Schools. No child should miss out on the chance to move, dance, and thrive!