For Newcastle-based Para rower Lisa Greissl, delivering on the world stage is a constant balancing act, but one made easier with support from the Para Athlete Barrier Fund.
Splitting her time between training at the Australian Institute of Sport and life as a mum of two, Greissl has used her grant, delivered through the Para Uplift, to manage the costs and logistical challenges that can impact preparation in Para sport.
The support allowed Greissl to meet the demands of regular training camps in Canberra and focus fully on her preparation.
"As a PR3 rower with a leg impairment, I require compression stockings that require replacing quite often and they're quite expensive," Greissl said.
"I'm also required to be at the Australian Institute of Sport every month for at least 10 days, which means that my children need support back home.
"Having this grant and being able to get some extra support means I can focus on what I need to do at training, knowing that my children have everything they need back home."
That ability to focus on training translated into a bronze medal performance at the 2025 World Championships, with Greissl now building towards upcoming international competition.
Greissl was one of 122 athletes across 18 sports to benefit from the Para Athlete Barrier Fund, delivered in partnership by the Australian Institute of Sport and Paralympics Australia, with grants of up to $4,000 helping offset key barriers to progression in Para sport.
The initiative is part of the Australian Government funded Para Uplift, which is strengthening Australia's Para sport system ahead of Brisbane 2032 by improving access to support, coaching and performance pathways.
"The Para Uplift makes us feel valued, supported and seen," she said
"As a community of Para athletes, there's extra motivation and drive to succeed because of that support around us."
A new round of Para Athlete Barrier Fund is open until Monday 4 May, with eligible athletes able to apply via the ASC Grants and Funding page.
