International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons has urged Australians to seize the “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” presented by the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games to drive global inclusion and social transformation. During his speech at the University of Queensland, Parsons highlighted Australia’s Paralympic legacy and the potential of these Games to set new global standards.
Parsons stressed that the Brisbane 2032 Games have the potential to act as a catalyst to improve the lives of the world’s 1.3 billion people with disabilities. According to the IPC president, “Brisbane 2032 and Paralympics Australia start from positions of great strength” and, working together, can change the country forever, create new sporting heroes and generate greater opportunities for the 5.5 million Australians with disabilities.
The IPC president also praised Australians’ emotional connection to their Paralympic team and the strategic planning already underway, including a record doubling of federal funding for Paralympic sport compared to previous investments.
Accessible infrastructure and lasting legacy
During his address, Parsons highlighted the Australian government’s commitment to accessibility and legacy in its infrastructure plan. This includes the delivery of fully accessible venues and transport improvements, which will benefit both Queenslanders and international visitors for generations to come.
Parsons said a successful Games in Brisbane will make a monumental difference, not only to the host city, but also to the country and the world. “It’s not often you get the chance to change your city forever, let alone your country or the world.”
Sydney 2000 legacy
Parsons’ visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games, an event that he said was a turning point for the IPC and laid the foundation for the Paralympic Movement moving forward. Parsons highlighted how the Paralympic Games have driven legislative reforms, improved infrastructure and transformed public attitudes towards disability.
In addition to his speech at the University of Queensland, Parsons and IPC Paralympic Games Director Colleen Wrenn met with key government representatives, including Minister for Sport Anika Wells and Queensland Minister for Sport and the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander. They will also participate in the Paralympics Australia Annual General Meeting in Sydney.
