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The Queensland Government has demonstrated its commitment to the success of Australian Paralympians once again, by announcing an important contribution to Paralympics Australia’s Team Appeal for Paris 2024.
In a move that signals a meaningful commitment to equality in sport, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced a $1.5 million commitment by the Queensland Government to be shared equally between the Australian Paralympic Team ($750,000) and the Australian Olympic Team ($750,000).
Paralympics Australia President Jock O’Callaghan said Premier Palaszczuk was setting a benchmark for all states and territories to follow.
“This announcement by the Queensland Government places equal value on the performances of the Australian Paralympic and Olympic Teams and the impact they both make on the Australian community.” O’Callaghan said.
“On behalf of Paralympics Australia, I commend the Queensland Government for championing equality of opportunity for athletes aiming to reach their full potential in Paris next year, regardless of whether you are a Paralympian or Olympian. It sets a powerful standard for our ongoing appeal.
“Along with the generosity of our donors and sponsors, the support of Government, both Federal and at a state and territory level, has the biggest bearing on the level of service PA is able to provide Australian team members at a Paralympic Games.”
The Queensland Government’s investment in PA’s Paris Team Appeal is more than double the contribution made by the Sunshine State for Tokyo 2020, and earns the distinction of becoming the first state or territory to confirm their investment for the current Games cycle.
Of the 179 Paralympians that represented Australia in the previous Summer Paralympic Games, 41 were from Queensland.
Paralympics Australia Chief Executive Officer Catherine Clark, herself a proud Queenslander, said support from the states and territories was critical to Australia’s Paris 2024 campaign, particularly in the face of rising cost-of-living pressures and travel expenses.
“We launched our new strategic plan earlier this year with three clear ambitions; to help build a world-leading and equitable sport system, to achieve remarkable Paralympic performances and to lead a Paralympic Team that is a source of Aussie pride and a force towards creating a more inclusive society.
“None of this is possible without ongoing engagement and support from our Government, our corporate partners and our donors via our fundraising initiatives. The support we receive from our partners is something PA never takes for granted.
“Today’s announcement by the Queensland Premier is a powerful example of commitment fulfilled, of words becoming actions. It is the parity of respect, admiration and regard that PA is advocating for; Australian athletes, Paralympians and Olympians, being supported equally.”
By: Paralympics Australia
Posted: 27 July 2023
