Cooper Blackwood, Team Australia competitor for the Invictus Games 2023, at the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation in Narrabeen. Source: Australian Government Department of Defence
The team of 31 athletes that will represent Australia at 2023’s Invictus Games Düsseldorf, Germany, was announced this morning by Minister for Defence Personnel and Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh.
The Invictus Games is an international, adaptive multi-sports competition for current and former military personnel who were wounded, injured or became ill during their service. The games’ purpose is to use the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect these servicemen and women.
In 2022 the Australian Government provided $9 million to the Invictus Games and the ongoing community work of Invictus Australia.
Keoph said the combined team of Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Invictus Australia members is a credit to Australia.
“On behalf of all of us sport-loving Australians, I wholeheartedly congratulate all the incredible members of Team Australia, who will not only represent our country at this year’s Games, they will represent all those who have served our nation in our ADF,” Keogh said.
“I commend Invictus Australia on their mission to adapt to the ever-changing needs of Australian veterans and families and the powerful role sport can play in strengthening wellbeing, supporting transition, recovery and rehabilitation.”
“Sport is a fantastic tool to support veterans as they transition from military service, not only to maintain physical fitness and social connection, but as a proactive and preventative measure to build mental resilience too.”
“I would like to acknowledge the families and friends of our team members, for their support through their rehabilitation journey.”
Australia’s 31 competitors will join 500 other current and former military personnel from 21 countries in what will be the sixth edition of the event since it began in 2014.
Team Australia will compete in a range of sports including swimming, athletics, indoor rowing, powerlifting, road cycling, sitting volleyball, table tennis, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby.
“The Invictus Games is an opportunity for Australia to celebrate determination, mateship and honour with others from around the world who have also shown resilience in times of adversity,” Keogh said.
The Department of Defence’s full announcement can be found here.
