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The Australian Paralympic Team’s Paris 2024 campaign has been bolstered by a landmark financial contribution from the Victoria Government. 

Premier Jacinta Allan announced $750,000 in funding towards Paralympics Australia’s Team Appeal, marking Victoria’s progression to equal funding for the Paralympic and Olympic Teams and a significant uplift in contribution to the Australian Paralympic Team. 

“The support of the Victoria Government for our elite Para-athletes is deeply appreciated,” Australian Paralympic Team Chef de Mission Kate McLoughlin said.  

“Victoria’s generous contribution will help us meet the substantial costs of preparing and sending the Australian Paralympic Team to Paris and create an optimal performance environment at the Games so they can focus on performing at their absolute peak and representing Australia in the best way possible. 

“Victorians traditionally make up about a quarter of the Australian Paralympic Team and Paris 2024 will likely again feature strong Victorian representation. On behalf of Paralympics Australia, thank you to Premier Allan and her Government for backing our amazing athletes.” 

 The announcement on Thursday morning was another step towards parity of support for Paralympic athletes. The governments of Victoria, Queensland, NSW, ACT and Western Australia have all now provided equal funding to the Australian Olympic and Paralympic teams in the lead up to Paris 2024.  

“I’m really pleased this morning to be able to confirm that the Victorian Government will make a $1.5 million contribution split equally between our Olympic and Paralympic teams who are heading off to Paris,” Premier Allan said. 

“We wish our athletes all the very best as they go and represent not just Victoria but indeed the nation… and we’re really proud to be able to provide this support.” 

By: David Sygall, Paralympics Australia

Published: 7 March 2024