Hey coaches, have you considered applying your track and field expertise in a new way? Athletics Australia is inviting you to express your interest in becoming a National Physical Impairment Classifier. In this voluntary role, you’ll play a key part in shaping fair and inclusive competitions for para-athletes. You’ll receive comprehensive training (fully funded) to assess and classify para-athletes, ensuring they can compete on a level playing field.

About the Opportunity

In para-sport, classification ensures that athletes with disabilities can compete on a fair and equal basis. This system groups athletes who share similar types and levels of impairment, allowing them to compete against each other on a level playing field. To determine the appropriate class for each athlete, classifiers carry out a series of assessments. These may involve evaluating their skill demonstrations, observing how their impairment impacts their performance, and reviewing competition footage. Classification ensures that athletes not only meet eligibility criteria for participation but also that they are matched with competitors who face comparable challenges.

National Physical Impairment Classifiers play a pivotal role in this process. Working closely with Athletics Australia, Paralympics Australia, and fellow classifiers, they assess and verify the classes into which para-athletes are placed. This involves attending a minimum of two in-person classification sessions during the Australian Summer Athletics season and being available on weekends, often with interstate travel. Beyond their on-site duties, classifiers help strengthen the overall classification framework, improving pathways for para-athletes seeking to engage in track and field. Their work supports a more inclusive sporting environment, ensuring that all participants can strive for excellence, knowing that the playing field is as level as possible.

Selection Criteria

Athletics Australia is currently inviting expressions of interest for Medical and Technical Classifiers.

Medical Classifiers: Relevant Tertiary qualification in physiotherapy, medicine or similar. Currently registered medical professional (e.g. physiotherapist or medical doctor). - minimum 5 years post-graduation.

Technical Classifiers: Relevant qualification in sport science, kinesiology, human movement, science or equivalent sport specific qualification including coaching. -minimum 5 years of experience.

Successful Applicants

Successful applicants will be invited to complete National Physical Impairment Classification training, with all costs (travel, accommodation, meals and course costs) covered in full. Training will include the following;

1. Online Education and face to face workshop
   This program is run by approved AA Classification Educators. Upon successful completion of the program individuals shall be awarded National Trainee Classifier status in Para-athletics. The face-to-face workshop will be held in May 2025 (date TBC).

2. Practical or Competition based classification training
   Trainee National Classifiers undertake classification as part of a panel whilst being mentored and observed to a set of criteria by approved National Classification Educators.

3. Certification as National classifier
   Subject to meeting all competency criteria above, individuals will be certified by Athletics Australia as Australian National Classifiers.

4. Upskilling and further development opportunities
   AA will offer opportunities for refresher courses and upskilling opportunities regularly including as updates to classification rules and policies are provided.

While classifiers work in a voluntary capacity at a state and national level, all costs associated with travel are covered and a per diem is provided.