Queensland athletes competing in future Invictus Games events will each be eligible for Queensland Academy of Sport’s Bonus Grants, Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni announced today (Sunday).
Speaking at a special event in Brisbane honouring athletes who competed in Sydney, Mr de Brenni said the Palaszczuk Government was keen to build on the momentum from this year’s successful Invictus Games.
"This year, we extended for the first time the $2700 QAS Bonus Grant - which is provided to Queensland’s Olympic, Paralympic and Commonwealth Games athletes - to our 32 Invictus Games competitors in Sydney," Mr de Brenni said.
"Invictus Games competitors are true role models and the event was an amazing success, highlighting the remarkable healing powers of sport – and that is why this government will continue supporting our athletes.
"On top of the permanent extension of the grants, Invictus Games athletes can continue using QAS facilities and expertise during their training.
"These athletes have served their community and are now representing them on a world stage and they deserve the same support and access to elite facilities as Olympic and Commonwealth Games competitors.
"I was privileged to attend some of the Invictus Games events and was inspired by the tremendous spirit showed by all the competitors.
"While most events are about medals, the real winners of the Invictus Games are the participants - with many having been wounded in combat or suffering from PTSD.
"For many competitors, the camaraderie of their teammates during training has been critical to their physical and mental recovery."
Co-captain of the Australian team Nicole Bradley thanked the government for their ongoing support.
"The effect of the Invictus Games on the competitors and their support people was much greater than I expected," Ms Bradley said.
"Training and preparing for the Invictus Games will leave a long-lasting legacy and for many, making the team is an extraordinary bonus.
"Through the Invictus Games, I have found myself outside of uniform with the opportunity to represent my military experience and the people I have loved and lost along the way," she said.
