New AIS grant eases financial barriers for Australia’s Para athletes

A new funding initiative is set to provide much-needed support to NT Para athletes, helping them compete at the highest level.

Member for Solomon Luke Gosling discusses the challenges faced by NT’s Para athletes and how the new funding initiative will support their journey to the world stage. Picture: Mitchell Hearne.

Northern Territory Para athletes could soon receive a financial boost, with a new grant offering up to $4000 per eligible competitor to assist with training, competition, or carer costs.

The AIS Para Athlete Barrier Fund, launched as part of the Albanese Government’s $54.9 million Para Uplift investment, aims to remove financial obstacles preventing athletes from reaching their potential.

Member for Solomon Luke Gosling discusses the challenges faced by NT’s Para athletes and how the new funding initiative will support their journey to the world stage. Picture: Mitchell Hearne.

Member for Solomon Luke Gosling said the initiative would help more Territorians represent Australia on the world stage.

“We are proud of the 11 Northern Territory Paralympians that have so far proudly represented Australia, and we look forward to providing opportunities for more of our own to wear the green and gold on the road to Brisbane 2032 and beyond,” he said.

Member for Solomon Luke Gosling discusses the challenges faced by NT’s Para athletes and how the new funding initiative will support their journey to the world stage. Picture: Mitchell Hearne.

Darwin-based Para-athlete and coach Greg Franks welcomed the grant, saying financial barriers have long been a struggle for competitors in the NT.

“When we were travelling for Australia, we had to raise all our own funds – for travel, accommodation, even uniforms,” he said.

“This grant will help athletes like me get to key events, like the Para Badminton Nationals and beyond.”

Franks, who won silver at last year’s Para Badminton Nationals, hopes additional support will help him reach the Oceania Games in Bendigo later this year.

Darwin-based Para-athlete and coach Greg Franks discusses the challenges faced by NT athletes and how the new AIS grant will provide much-needed support. Picture: Mitchell Hearne.

Minister for Sport Anika Wells said the funding will provide direct support where it’s needed most as Australia gears up for the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games.

“We’ve heard from our athletes the challenges they face in reaching their potential and (this) fund will provide immediate support where it’s needed most as we look ahead to our home Games in Brisbane,” she said.

The investment also includes the establishment of Para Sport Units across the country, improving training environments, coaching, and classification opportunities.

The fund will also benefit athletes preparing for major international events, including the 2026 Commonwealth Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.

Applications for the AIS Para Athlete Barrier Fund are open until May 5.

More information is available at the Australian Sports Commission’s website.