The NSW Government has today announced a $2.305 million investment towards the formation of the NSW Institute of Sport (NSWIS) Para Unit.
It says the NSWIS Para Unit will provide a landing place for aspiring Paralympians by creating opportunities for holistic development and progression focusing on increased participation in sport, and the number of NSW athletes selected to compete for Australia at major international para events.
The funding will be used to:
- break down the 160 systemic barriers that have been identified as deterring potential para-athletes from entering, and progressing, in sport;
- guide more para-athletes into sport to increase participation numbers and, consequently, the talent pool for international sport;
- identify talent;
- employ specialised para-coaches and support staff;
- increase opportunities to gain classifications to compete nationally and internationally, and to enter high performance pathway;
- assist para-athletes to overcome the difficulties they encounter when travelling to domestic and international competitions.
“The Minns government believes that no athlete should be held back by barriers,” said NSW Sports Minister, Steve Kamper.
We’re committed to making sport accessible to all—because everyone deserves the opportunity to chase their dreams.
“The NSWIS Para Unit will be a game-changer, providing a clear pathway for athletes to develop their skills, find purpose, and strive for greatness. “
NSW Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said Australia saw just last year in Paris, how the sheer grit and determination of our Paralympians can inspire the nation and open our eyes to a more inclusive society.
“The NSW Government has a proud history of investing in our Paralympians and cheering them on as they do us proud on the world stage,” she said.
“This commitment will ensure people with disability have the same opportunities to reach their full potential in sport – by providing dedicated pathways, specialist coaches, and more support.”
NSWIS Chief Executive Officer, Professor Kevin Thompson said young athletes will be inspired knowing there is now a world-class, high-performance unit that’s dedicated to nurturing emerging para-athletic talent – like them – to succeed on the world stage.
“The funding will be used to unearth yet to be discovered para-athletes from around the state and provide them with every opportunity to experience the joy and fellowship of sport, as well as the honour and privilege of competing for Australia at the Paralympics,” said Mr Thompson.
Paralympics Australia Chief Executive Officer Cameron Murray said it was exciting to think the unit will provide opportunities for up to another 40 para-athletes over the term of the current two-year contract to come into the NSW Para-sport system and help set the foundation for an era of unprecedented success.
“NSW has a proud tradition in Paralympic sport, having produced many of Australia’s greatest Paralympians,” he said.
“We are confident the establishment of a dedicated and well-resourced NSW Para Unit at NSWIS will prove an enormous boost for current and future athletes and coaches.”
