How Para Uplift funding is supporting Daniel Rigby’s Paralympic pathway

Having recently finished high school, Australian Para-swimmer Daniel Rigby is preparing for his next chapter, balancing university study while chasing his Paralympic dreams. 

The rising talent is a member of Swimming Australia’s National Para Flippers Squad, a pathway program that develops junior athletes for senior national teams and international competition. 

However, to stay on this path, Rigby faces the ongoing challenge of funding his coaching, training equipment, performance support, competition fees and travel for key events, all on top of his university expenses. 

That’s where the Para Athlete Barrier Fund is making a difference.  

Run in partnership by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and Paralympics Australia, the Para Athlete Barrier Fund has provided Rigby, along with 121 other athletes across 18 sports, with up to $4,000 to help offset costs that can often be barriers to progression in Para-sport. 

“Receiving the Para Athlete Barrier Fund was really helpful,” Rigby said.  

“It allows me to attend more competitions, giving me valuable racing experience that I need to improve and progress toward my long-term goals, including qualifying for the Paralympic Games.” 

These grants are a direct outcome of the Australian Government-funded Para Uplift initiative, which aims to strengthen the support and opportunities available to Para-athletes as they progress to the international stage in the lead up to Brisbane 2032.  

Find out more about the Para Uplift or continue reading about impact of the Para Athlete Barrier Fund.