Labor has promised $1 million to Special Olympics Australia to make it more affordable for competitors to attend the junior and national games in Launceston in 2020 and 2022.
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But the Tasmanian government has cried foul, claiming it was not consulted before Labor made the pledge.
Labor disability spokesperson Senator Carol Brown and Bass Labor MHR Ross Hart made the announcement in Launceston on Monday, joined by Special Olympics Australia chief executive officer Corene Strauss.
Ms Strauss said the additional $1 million would reduce the cost of entry fees for competitors and make the event more accessible for people with a disability.
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"What will happen is that it will reduce the cost of the event, so the cost to participate to reduce," she said.
"It's a great demonstration of support for people with an intellectual disability who face inequality, injustice on a regular basis."
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Competitors are usually required to fork out about $3000 to attend the national games, money that often comes through fundraising.
The event received $500,000 in state government funding through Events Tasmania last year, and $130,000 from the City of Launceston.
Special Olympics Australia also received $1.4 million this year as part of the federal government's national sport plan to help people with disabilities participate in mainstream sport, and inclusive training for teachers.
Senator Brown said it was important to ensure the Games were as accessible as possible.
Bass Liberal candidate Bridget Archer said the party were "strong supporters" of the Special Olympics, but could not commit to match the funding.
The Special Olympics Junior Games will begin on October 18 next year.