Classification

What is classification?

Classification is crucial to the integrity and fairness of Para-sport competition. It determines which athletes are eligible to participate and the structure for how they are categorised for events. The aim of classification is to group together athletes with similar impairments. It is similar to grouping athletes by age, gender or weight.

Paralympics Australia is responsible for implementing the International Paralympic Committee’s Athlete Classification Code, which details the relevant policies and procedures common across Paralympic sports. We work with our National Sporting Organisation partners to create opportunities for athletes to access accurate and quality classification at the relevant point in their sporting pathway. We actively promote ethical classification practice, ensuring that our athletes are protected and Para-sports integrity is upheld.

To compete in Para-sport, you must undergo a classification assessment and hold a sport class in your chosen sport. Click on the sport summary pages to find out more about eligibility for your sport and who to contact for information on how to become classified. Classification is not required for recreation or social involvement in Para-sport.

If you are unable to find the information you require, please contact the team at Paralympics Australia and we will assist you.

Want to learn more about the importance of classification in Para-sport? In partnership with Sport Integrity Australia, Paralympics Australia has launched a Classification Fundamentals online course to educate everyone involved in Para-sport about why classification is so important. Key topics include who can compete in Para-sport, how classification works, and the reasons why fairness and safety in classification is paramount. Register to complete the course today!

Vision Impairment Classification

Paralympics Australia manage the National Classification Program for Vision Impairment. If you have a vision impairment (VI) and would like to start the process of getting a VI classification, please complete our request for classification form.

What is the role of a classifier?

Classifiers are sports officials with a medical or sport science background who have completed the required training and certification as determined by the International and National Federation of their nominated sport. They assess athletes to determine their eligibility for Para-sport competition and provide them with a sport class and sport class status at the conclusion of the assessment.

The training and management of classifiers for athletes with a physical impairment is the responsibility of the National Sporting Organisation. If you would like to register interest in becoming a classifier, please contact the National Sporting Organisation of your preferred sport.

The training and management of classifiers for athletes with a vision impairment is the responsibility of Paralympics Australia. To register your interest, please contact Paralympics Australia.

Resources

If you are unable to access a document in this section of the website and you require an alternative format, please email classification@paralympic.org.au and we will assist you where possible:

What is Para-sport Classification? (PDF – 929KB)

Who can compete in Para-sport? (PDF – 609KB)

Who can compete at the Paralympic Games? (PDF – 951KB)

How to connect athletes to Para-sport (PDF -812KB)