A new $4.3 million Para-sport unit will be created within the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) in an attempt to double the pipeline of Paralympians in the lead up to Brisbane 2032.
Queensland Sports Minister Tim Mander said the unit, to be delivered in partnership with the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and Paralympics Australia, would reduce barriers for participation and talent identification, enhance performance pathways, and develop world-class Para-sport coaches.
Minister Mander said there are more than 160 systemic barriers to entry and progression for Para-athletes, including limited access to classification and high-performance pathways, a lack of experienced coaches and challenges with travelling to national and international competitions.
“The QAS currently supports 85 Para-athletes, and this investment aims to more than double this number by 2029,” he said.
Minister Mander said key initiatives of the Para-sport unit, which will open in March, included:
- Para Talent Program: A pre-elite pathway providing tailored support for 40 aspiring Para athletes, modelled on the successful QAS Talent Support Plan program.
- Gen2032 Para Coaching Program: Developing specialised coaching pathways to strengthen Para sport expertise across Queensland.
- Affiliate Program and Talent ID Network: Establishing partnerships with allied health professionals and networks to expand talent identification efforts.
- Revamped YouFor2032 Talent Search: Redesigned as a four-stage program to identify and develop emerging Para talent.
He said the unit was backed by $2 million from the Queensland Government, $2.125 million from the Federal Government and $270,000 from Paralympics Australia over two years.
“We want Brisbane 2032 to be our most successful Paralympic Games ever.
“The QAS Para sport unit has a clear focus on reducing barriers that Para-athletes and people with a disability face when engaging in sport, creating a legacy that will drive Queensland and Australia’s success on the global stage.”
Australian Sports Commission Executive General Manager of AIS Performance Matti Clements said the AIS, the National Institute Network, sports and Paralympics Australia were all aligned on the desire to get the positive outcomes for the Paralympic team at LA 2028, Brisbane 2032, and beyond.
“QAS has been a critical support in the planning and development of the Para System Uplift, and the standup of their Para unit is a significant milestone for Queensland and our sport sector as a whole,” he said.
