14 November 2025
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and friends of Team Australia.
Thank you for joining us at the Australian Embassy as we celebrate the 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics.
It is a privilege to welcome athletes, their families, coaches, interpreters, and officials. Congratulations to each of you for earning your place on Team Australia—you carry with you the pride of a nation.
Tonight, we are honoured to host the announcement of your flag bearers for this milestone Deaflympics, marking 100 years since the first Games in Paris in 1924. What an extraordinary legacy to be part of. The Deaflympics celebrates not only athletic excellence but also the power of inclusion, innovation, and international cooperation.
I want to acknowledge the close to 100 Australian athletes competing across nine sports: Basketball, Football, Athletics, Swimming, Tennis, Table Tennis, Beach Volleyball, Golf, and Tenpin Bowling. I look forward to fierce rivalry on the field and new friendships off.
Tonight, we celebrate not only athletic excellence, but global connection and camaraderie through sport.
Australia’s Sports Diplomacy Strategy 2032+ recognises sport as a powerful tool for engagement—one that can elevate our global presence, strengthen international relationships, and project a modern, diverse Australia to the world.
We are now in the midst of the Green and Gold Decade—a period of unprecedented opportunity for Australia to host and participate in major international sporting events, culminating in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This decade is not just about competition; it’s about connection, collaboration, and showcasing the best of who we are.
We wish Team Australia every success. This is a unique experience—embrace it fully and represent Australia with energy and enthusiasm.
Behind every medal and milestone are the coaches, interpreters, administrators, volunteers, and supporters who make it all possible.
I want to acknowledge your efforts in advancing Australia’s reputation for sporting excellence and integrity.
Thank you for being here tonight—and good luck to Team Australia!