Join AUS Squad
Back To News
Australia will compete in four sports at the Paralympic Winter Games for the first time ever, following confirmation of quota allocations in Para-cross country and Para-biathlon for Milano Cortina 2026.
Representation in the two Para-Nordic sports is a major coup for Australia and brings into contention exciting athletes, including Taryn Dickens, Dave Miln and Matt Brumby, each of whom would make their Paralympic debut if selected.
Quota spots were also assured in Para-alpine skiing and Para-snowboarding, in which Australians regularly contend for medals.
“It’s fantastic news to receive these qualification slots, which ensure representation in four sports for the first time in Australia’s Paralympic Winter Games history,” Chef de Mission Ben Troy said.
“While there is still plenty for the athletes to do to earn selection, the allocation of these spots is testament to the work that they and their sports have been putting in to put themselves alongside the best in the world.”
The allocation across four sports provides certainty to Paralympics Australia’s team delivery planning, which will now extend to two regions in northern Italy; Cortina, where skiing and snowboarding will be staged, and the Val de Femme valley, which will host the Nordic sports.
The Paralympic Winter Games features six sports in total: Para-alpine skiing, Para-biathlon, Para-cross country skiing, Para-ice hockey, Para-snowboard and wheelchair curling.
Australian athletes and support staff in contention for Milano Cortina will attend training camps in Australia and New Zealand during the southern winter before heading north for the change of season.
“The northern hemisphere season is where they’ll continue to hone their skills,” Troy said. “We want them to get a really good run into potential selection to the Australian Paralympic Winter Team for what will be an incredible Games.”
By David Sygall, Paralympics Australia.
Published 3 June, 2025.
