The Queensland Government and The University of Queensland have each committed $44 million funding to establish a world-leading Paralympic Centre of Excellence at UQ's St Lucia campus.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the government's support was an example of the legacy that hosting the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is all about.
"A Paralympic Centre of Excellence inspires more para-athletes to compete in 2032 and also provides invaluable research and other opportunities for our community," the Premier said.
"The long-lasting benefits will continue long after the closing ceremonies."
The Paralympic Centre of Excellence would cater for 20 of the 23 Paralympic sports and would assist para-athletes to participate in and train for sporting competition.
Integrating UQ's research and education within an international standard facility, the Centre could become a long-term home for para-sport in Australia.
An artist's impression of the Paralympic Centre of Excellence (left) , alongside the proposed Health and Recreation Precinct (right). Both buildings with be fully accessible.
An artist's impression of the Paralympic Centre of Excellence (left) , alongside the proposed Health and Recreation Precinct (right). Both buildings with be fully accessible.
UQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry welcomed the Queensland Government's commitment to establishing a paralympic facility at the St Lucia campus.
"UQ is ranked second in the world for sports science and it will be a privilege to apply our knowledge and expertise to encourage and support para-athletes," Professor Terry said.
"We know that 3 out of 4 Australians with a disability want to participate in sports but only one in 4 do.
"Through the Centre our aim will be to support increased participation, from grassroots to the Paralympics, and achieve the highest medal tally for Australia in Games' history in 2032."
"Helping to achieve more equitable access to sport for people with a disability and the associated health and lifestyle benefits will be the real legacy from this project."
The Paralympics Centre will be co-located with the proposed Health and Recreation Precinct at St Lucia, which the University has separately committed to.
Over the coming months, design concepts for the Centre will be further developed in consultation with government and Paralympics Australia and, pending further funding, construction will likely begin within 2 to 3 years.
Once completed in 2027-28, the Centre will provide placement and study opportunities for students in sports sciences subjects.
