Australian Paralympians winning gold, silver and bronze medals at the Paris Paralympics will get the same cash rewards as Australian Olympic medallists. Gold medallists will receive $20,000, silver medallists $15,000, and bronze medallists $10,000, according to Sports Minister Anika Wells, who is overseeing 160 competitors competing in 17 different sports.
Wheelchair racer Madison De Rozario, flag bearer for the August 28 Paris Paralympics opening ceremony and a Tokyo dual gold medallist, heartily praised the decision.
De Rozario stated; “When it was first announced in Tokyo, it was so exciting, and to know that it’s happening again is gratifying.
“But this support tells us as Paralympians that we are valued. It also tells the public that athletes with a disability are equal with non-disabled athletes”
The government recognizes Paralympians’ importance, says Paralympics Australia president
Paralympics Australia president Alison Creagh said, “We are sure that Australia will be supporting our Paralympic athletes as they compete in the coming weeks. They are amazing role models that inspire the entire country. A timely boost for our athletes as they get ready for the opening ceremony in Paris on August 28 is provided by the recent confirmation of medal payments, which were first adopted in Tokyo 2021.
“Knowing that their achievements are valued equally to their Olympic colleagues will give our athletes more confidence and motivation to compete at their best,” added Creagh. “Many of our Paralympians face significant financial strain as they pursue success on the world stage. This support rewards their success and acknowledges the broader challenges they face.”