Paralympics Australia Appoints Dedicated Team of Advisors

Paralympics Australia landscape is set for advancement following the appointment of a dedicated team of specialist advisors across the nation’s sports institutes and academies.

This initiative, comprising four new Para Sport and Classification Advisor roles, is an effort by Paralympics Australia, the Australian Sports Commission, and state-based Para Sport Units.

These units are now operational in five states and the Northern Territory, with further developments underway in Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory.

This expanded network forms a core component of the newly launched Para Uplift program, an initiative stemming from Australia’s High Performance 2032+ Sport Strategy.

Its primary objective is to dismantle systemic barriers that have historically impeded the entry and progression of Para-athletes within the sporting system.

Investment in Human Capital and System Refinement

The introduction of these advisor roles represents a significant investment in human capital aimed at refining the complex classification system, which is fundamental to fair competition in Para-sport.

Highlighting the initiative of the collaboration, Classification Lead for Paralympics Australia, Kara Retford, said: “These Para Sport and Classification Advisor roles exemplify the collaborative effort to mitigate the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in sport, as well as facilitate their progression towards elite-level competition.”

Advisors are tasked with educating athletes and the allied health community, simplifying navigation of the classification framework, and leveraging data for talent identification and transfer.

This direct support is critical for optimising athletes’ competitive prospects and enhancing Australia’s medal opportunities for Brisbane 2032 and beyond.

Broadening Participation and Operational Efficiency

The geographical distribution of these advisors – covering Western Australia; Queensland and the Northern Territory; New South Wales and the ACT; and Victoria and Tasmania.

Emphasising the practical benefit, Para Unit Lead at the Western Australian Institute of Sport, Brad Scott, said: “There is significant confusion and misconceptions about classification.”

“This role will not only provide education but will also support athletes in their preparation for classification events.”

Demystifying this process can reduce barriers to entry, making Para-sport more accessible and streamlining athlete pathways.

The local impact of these appointments is particularly evident in emerging Para-sport hubs.

Noting the challenge of limited local classifiers and expressed optimism for the future, Manager of Para Pathways for the Northern Territory’s new Para Sport Unit, Jodie Zanini, added: “These new positions will elevate awareness, build local capacity, and provide essential support for athletes, coaches, clubs, and sports throughout the Territory.”

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