As we leave the Paris Paralympics behind, the Queensland Government has founded the Empower project to ensure the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games have a lasting impact on disability access and inclusion in sports.
The government has earmarked $1 million for Empower, an early Games legacy project which focuses on breaking down barriers to sports participation for people with disabilities in Queensland.
The Jamieson Trauma Institute, in collaboration with Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN), QUT, The University of Queensland, Griffith University and consumer advocates will spearhead the research initiative.
The Empower project will conduct comprehensive mapping of Queensland’s disability population, providing evidence-based strategies to foster inclusive sports participation, and aims to inform strategies that will increase participation for people with disability in sport and recreation across the state.
Leaving a legacy
Empower aligns with the goals of Elevate 2042, the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Legacy Strategy.
“As we approach the year 2032 and beyond, an opportunity arises to catalyse positive change and reshape the landscape of disability access and inclusion in sports,” said Professor Dr Michael Schuetz, director of the Jamieson Trauma Institute.
“Our partnership, comprising the Queenslanders with Disability Network, Sporting Wheelies, QUT, The University of Queensland, and Jamieson Trauma Institute, is committed to turning evidence into actionable strategies for inclusive sports participation for Queenslanders with disability.
“We welcome the Queensland Government support for this project and hope we can contribute to a legacy of improved access and inclusion in sports for all Queenslanders with disability.”
Michelle Moss, CEO of QDN, said the advocacy organisation would ensure that the voices of those with lived experience are involved in the Empower project.
Disability advocate Matthew Ames added: “It’s encouraging to see Brisbane’s 2032 Paralympic Games legacy already focusing on creating positive change for people with disabilities by removing barriers to sports participation.”