Community Rallies Behind Badminton and Table Tennis Investment in Stretton
Throughout my work as your local Member of Parliament, I notice the need for more State Government investment in Badminton and Table Tennis for our community. Whilst other, more well-established sports receive significant government support, badminton and table tennis don’t.
With significant population growth from international regions where badminton and table tennis are traditionally popular, my community is uniquely positioned to become a powerhouse for these sports. We should have more investment in these sports to make our community healthier, happier and stronger.
While badminton and table tennis have not historically been dominant in Australia’s sporting landscape, our community’s changing demographics and growing participation rates present an opportunity for establishing Queensland as a powerhouse for these sports. Research shows there has been an 86% increase in participation for badminton in 
Queensland and a 69% increase for table tennis over the last five years. We have young players who are ready and willing. We need to support and nurture this talent to continue Australia’s excellence in enabling community sports and professional athletes.
With both sports experiencing rapid growth and multicultural appeal, residents are calling on decision-makers to act now.
A recently launched petition has already gained significant traction, highlighting the clear demand for better infrastructure. Local schools and clubs are often oversubscribed, with players relying on limited or private facilities, making regular training difficult particularly for young people.
A Smart Investment in Health, Culture, and Opportunity
Badminton and Table Tennis are a smart investment in health, culture, and opportunity. I know from visiting local schools of the passion and energy of our community. These sports promote physical activity and mental wellbeing, while being accessible to people of all ages, fitness levels, and abilities. They hold strong cultural significance for many communities across the Stretton electorate and foster intergenerational and multicultural connections. Importantly, they also support student athletes in their journey toward elite competition.
This is about building community and giving kids a chance to shine.
-James Martin MP
Looking Ahead for More State Government Investment Opportunities
Several options for investment are currently being considered, with Stretton standing out as a strong contender thanks to its high local participation, convenient public transport links, and availability of suitable land.
Help us make this vision a reality. Every signature helps strengthen the case for investment.
We’re not just asking for investment, we’re building a stronger community
-James Martin MP
Pathway to Brisbane 2032 and Investing in Future Champions
With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, now is the time to invest in world-class community infrastructure that can nurture the next generation of athletes. A purpose-built Badminton and Table Tennis facility in Stretton would not only meet growing local demand but also serve as a vital training ground for young athletes aiming to compete at the highest level.
Queensland has a rare opportunity to develop homegrown talent in sports where Australia is increasingly competitive on the global stage. By building a facility that supports grassroots participation and high-performance training, we can ensure that aspiring players have the tools, coaching, and space they need to succeed.
This hub would also provide a platform for para-athletes, who deserve equal access to inclusive, accessible training environments. Stretton can help lead the way in building a lasting legacy from the 2032 Games for a healthier, more active community.
Stay in touch
For more updates, events, and progress on this campaign, stay connected and share the message within your community. Together, we can build a stronger community.
