Paralympics Australia Appoints New Permanent CEO Following Unexpected Departure of Predecessor Before the Games

Paralympics Australia has appointed a new permanent chief executive officer after the unexpected departure of Catherine Clark just one month before the Paris Games.

Cameron Murray, who transitioned from his role as head of commercial operations at Paralympics Australia to serve as interim CEO following Clark’s resignation, has now been officially appointed to the position.

“I am privileged to lead Paralympics Australia into this exciting new chapter as we aim to create more opportunities for the next generation of para-athletes and work towards hosting the Games on home soil in 2032,” Murray stated.

“Following our successful campaign for Paris 2024, our focus is now on establishing a world-class environment where our para-athletes can excel, while also strengthening the Australian Paralympic movement through enhancing our community connections.”

In a significant announcement just ahead of the Paris Paralympics, Australia’s Minister for Sport, Anika Wells, declared that medallists will receive financial rewards equivalent to their Olympic counterparts: $20,000 for a gold medal, $15,000 for silver, and $10,000 for bronze.

Australia achieved a remarkable haul of 63 medals at the Paris Paralympics, featuring 18 gold, 17 silver, and 28 bronze medals.

This placed Australia ninth for the total number of gold medals, following behind countries such as China, Great Britain, the USA, the Netherlands, Brazil, Italy, Ukraine, and France.

“These are exhilarating times,” Murray remarked.

“However, much remains to be accomplished to enhance our commercial operations, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the Paralympic movement into the future, enabling even more Australians with disabilities to chase their aspirations through para-sport.

“It is humbling and inspiring to lead this incredible organisation alongside the talented team at Paralympics Australia as we strive to find innovative ways to make a lasting impact.”

In July, it was announced that Clark would be resigning after two and a half years in the role, although the reasons for her departure were not disclosed.