Darwin's Arafura Games have been nominated by the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) to join the ``sport for all'' category.

Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates approached Territory Sports Minister Kon Vatskalis for approval to nominate the Arafura Games, highlighting the impression the Games have made in Australia and across the Asia Pacific region.

Vatskalis said the nomination is recognition by the AOC of the outstanding success of the Games to both the standard of competition and its importance as a sporting event.

``I had no hesitation in giving consent to our nomination and I am thrilled that the AOC has recognised the quality of competition and the international fellowship on display at the Arafura Games,'' Vatskalis said.

``The fact that the AOC has officially recognised the importance of the Arafura Games to the Asia Pacific region is a tribute to all who have, and are continuing to, work to showcase the best of the Territory's hospitality and sporting prowess.

``We have our fingers crossed that the IOC will do likewise which would give our Games added distinction and publicity.''

Olympic recognition comes on top of an announcement that weightlifting at the 2007 games will incorporate the Commonwealth Junior Weightlifting Championships.

``The Arafura Games, starting May 19 next year, have been held in Darwin since 1991 and continue to go from strength to strength as a world-class sporting event which is great news for Territory sporting fans,'' Vatskalis said.

``And it's also great news for the local business sector who will continue to reap the benefits the influx of competitors and officials bring to the Top End.''