Athletes with a Disability 

Athletics Australia and its Member Associations offer many opportunities for the inclusion of Athletes with a Disability (AWD) at Local, State, National and International level.

Local

At a Local level many AWDs access regular competition through their interclub network.  Most clubs will do there very best to include AWDs.  However, the level of expertise does vary considerably.  Fortunately, that there are many very good role models that are setting the standards for other to follow.  Many local club networks can also assist in locating Local coaching expertise and support.  For further information contact your local athletic club or State Association.

State

Most State Athletics associations have made significant inroads in their efforts so that may AWDs access regular competition through the interclub network.  However, the level of this support does vary between States.   For further information contact your local athletic club or State Association.

National

The competition opportunities for “Open Age” AWDs at a National Level within the Athletics Australia competitions are well established.  Athletics Australia has conducted National Championships for AWDs since 1992.  Since 2001 these Championships were integrated/combined with Athletics Australia able-bodied Championships.  For further information and entry details refer to the events section.

The inaugural Athletics Australia Underage AWD Championships are being held in Canberra, 17-19/Nov/2006.  Athletics Australia and ACT Athletics have made a commitment to run this event for 3 years to investigate the interest and viability of them becoming a permanent fixture on the Athletics Australia calendar.  For further information refer to the events calendar.

Competition opportunities are also provided for AWDs to compete in Telstra A-Series Meets by invitation.  Travel and accommodation expenses for AWDs invited to compete at these events is provided through the Athletics Australia Paralympic Preparation Program.