Paralympics Australia has joined the Federal Minister for Sport the Hon Anika Wells and Australian Sports Commission Chair Kate Jenkins AO in congratulating Kieren Perkins OAM on his reappointment as the ASC Chief Executive Officer.
Mr Perkins, who started in the role four years ago, was reappointed for a further five years, providing leadership stability for Australian sport as the nation continues to build towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Paralympics Australia Chief Executive Cameron Murray said the Australian Paralympic Movement welcomed the extension of Mr Perkins’ tenure as CEO and recognised his firm support for Australia’s current and aspiring Paralympians.
“On behalf of Paralympics Australia and everyone involved in Paralympic and Para sport around the country, congratulations to Kieren on his well-deserved reappointment as CEO of the Australian Sports Commission,” Mr Murray said.
“Under Kieren’s leadership – and with the steadfast backing of the Federal Government through the Australian Sports Commission –the future of Para sport in Australia has never looked brighter.
“Through the Para System Uplift and the establishment of Para Sport Units around the country, new generations of athletes with a disability are now being provided the resources and support they need to reach their potential.
“We thank Kieren for his belief in the power of sport – and Paralympic sport, in particular – to inspire, motivate and elevate all Australians.”
Mr Perkins’ reappointment through to 2031 was confirmed by Minister Wells on Wednesday.
“I am delighted with the reappointment of Kieren as the CEO of the Australian Sports Commission,” Minister Wells said.
“Kieren is fondly remembered by many Australians as a four-time Olympic medallist and a crowd favourite in a dominant era for Australian swimming. Now he’s one of Australia’s most effective and esteemed sports administrators.
“As Brisbane 2032 approaches, it’s crucial the Australian Sports Commission has a reliable and respected set of hands at the wheel, and Kieren brings that and more to the table.”
ASC Chair Ms Jenkins said Mr Perkins had strengthened Australian sport at every level.
“On behalf of the Australian Sports Commission, I am delighted that Kieren will remain our Chief Executive Officer for another five years,” Ms Jenkins said.
“Australian sport is in a stronger position thanks to his leadership. Over the last four years, Kieren’s focus on collaboration has led to significant milestones that have strengthened the system from community sport to the elite level.
“These include working with the government and sport sector to secure record funding to support delivery of the national sport participation strategy, Play Well, and the sector’s high performance strategy, Win Well, followed by the once-in-a-generation revitalisation of the AIS campus through the Podium Project.
“His reappointment ensures we can carry this momentum forward as we continue building on our vision where sport has a place for everyone and delivers results that make Australia proud.”
Mr Perkins said he was honoured by the reappointment.
“Sport has been one of the most influential forces in my life, and it is a privilege to continue to be involved through my role at the Australian Sports Commission,” Mr Perkins said.
“The Australian Sports Commission exists to serve all of sport. I want to acknowledge our people, who strive every day to create more opportunities in safe, welcoming and fun environments for all Australians, from playgrounds to podiums.
“I would also like to thank the Australian Government and Minister Wells for supporting me to continue in the role and in the work that we do. The collaborative approach the sector is taking through this exciting period will ensure sport continues to play a pivotal role in the lives of all Australians.
“I look forward to continuing to work with our broad range of stakeholders in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 to create a sporting legacy that will benefit all Australians for generations to come.”
By ASC and David Sygall.
Published 25 February, 2026.
