Team Australia named for Invictus Games Dusseldorf 2023

31 athletes will represent Australia at this year’s Invictus Games in Dusseldorf Germany this September.

The Invictus Games is an international, adaptive multi-sports competition for serving and former military personnel who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their military service.

Minister for Defence Personnel and Veterans’ Affairs, The Hon Matt Keogh MP, said the combined Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Invictus Australia team, was a credit to the nation.

“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,” Minister 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.”

Australian competitors will join 500 current and former serving military personnel from 21 other nations to take part in the sixth edition of the event.

Team Australia will participate in sports including athletics, indoor rowing, powerlifting, road cycling, sitting volleyball, table tennis, swimming, 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,” Minister Keogh said.

In 2022 the Australian Government contributed $9 million towards the Invictus Games and the ongoing work of Invictus Australia in the community.

Team Australia is supported by the Australian Defence Force and Invictus Australia.

MEDIA NOTE:

Media can access imagery and vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/S20230666
Competitor biographies are online at https://invictusaustralia.org/strongteam-australiastrong/

Open Arms — Veterans & Families Counselling provides free and confidential support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families. Help is available 24/7 on 1800 011 046 (international: +61 1800 011 046 or +61 8 8241 4546) or visit www.OpenArms.gov.au