Aussie medal-winners at the Paralympic Games in Paris will take home not just glory, but a cash reward in line with their Olympian peers.
Australia is sending 160 athletes to the Paralympics, where they will compete in 17 sports.
Sport Minister Anika Wells has announced that gold medallists will be awarded $20,000, silver medallists $15,000, and bronze medallists $10,000.
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It’s the same amount that Olympian medal winners were paid.
Tokyo dual goal medallist and flag bearer for the upcoming opening ceremony in Paris on August 28, Madison De Rozario, applauded the announcement.
“When it was first announced in Tokyo it was so exciting and to know that it’s happening again is gratifying,” De Rozario said.
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“Paralympians aren’t here in Paris for money – we’re here in the green-and-gold because of what it means to us to compete for our country.
“But this support tells us as Paralympians that we are valued. It also tells the public that athletes with a disability are equal with non-disabled athletes.”
Paralympics Australia president Alison Creagh said it showed the government recognised the importance of Paralympians.
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“Our Paralympic athletes are role models who inspire the nation and we know they will have Australia cheering them on when they compete in the weeks ahead.”
She said confirmation of the medal payments, which were first issued at Tokyo in 2021, would be a timely boost for athletes ahead of the August 28 opening ceremony in Paris.
“Knowing that their achievements are valued equally to their Olympic colleagues will give our athletes more confidence and motivation to compete at their best,” Creagh said.
“Many of our Paralympians face significant financial strain as they pursue success on the world stage. This support rewards their success and acknowledges the broader challenges they face.”
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