Multi-Class Athletes

Little Athletics Queensland is committed to providing equal opportunities for people of all abilities. We recognise that children with a disability participate in sport for the same reasons as their peers — to have fun, build confidence, make friends, and develop skills.

We strive to create an inclusive environment where barriers to participation are removed and all athletes feel welcome, supported, and comfortable taking part.

Classification & Eligibility

To compete as an athlete with a disability, athletes must meet the minimum disability criteria for their impairment group and obtain a classification through an approved evaluation or eligibility process. These processes are outlined in the Athletics Australia Classification Policy and Procedures.

Physical Impairments (Local & State competition only):
Athletes may apply for a Provisional Classification at any time during the year. This involves:
- Completing the required application form
- Obtaining a report from a physiotherapist
- Submitting the documentation to Queensland Athletics
Other Impairment Types (e.g. hearing, intellectual, vision):
Athletes must contact the relevant governing organisation responsible for providing classification in that impairment area.

For further information on how to obtain a classification, please follow the link provided.

Centre Level Participation

At a local Centre level, athletes with a disability are encouraged to participate in regular weekly activities. Many athletes are fully integrated into existing programs without the need for modification.

Where required, Centres may adapt rules, equipment or activities to support participation. The level of modification will depend on the individual athlete’s needs and may range from minor adjustments through to more significant modifications. In some cases, modifications may be gradually reduced over time as skills and confidence develop.

Inclusion of specific multiclass events for Centre-run carnivals is at the discretion of the carnival organisers.

Regional & State Level Competition

To compete as a classified Multi-Class athlete, proof of current classification must be uploaded in the LAQ registration platform Sport:80

LAQ Regional and State Event Participation

LAQ registered and classified Multi-Class athletes may nominate for all LAQ Competition as listed below in Multi-Class (Para) or Standard events – may compete a combination of both but not the same event in both categories. Athletes are also encouraged to compete in mainstream opportunities where appropriate.

LAQ State Participation / Qualification

LAQ registered and classified Multi-Class athletes have the opportunity to qualify for LAQ State Championships events as listed below in Multi-Class (Para) events and or standard events. Multi-Class athletes may compete / qualify in a combination of both, but not the same event in both categories.

To be eligible:

Athletes must first compete /qualify at their relevant Regional Championships.
Once participation is recorded, athletes’ nominations based on the same Multi-Class events contested at Regionals must be processed by the Club representatives.
Nominations for athletes who qualify for able-bodied events by placing at their Regional Championships, must be processed by the Club representatives.
A maximum of five (5) events applies across all entries.

Multi-Class events offered include:
100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, Long Jump, Discus, Javelin and Shot Put.
(Note: Long Jump, Discus and Javelin are not offered for wheelchair classifications.)

Age Groups & Placings

Placings and medals for MC events are awarded across combined age groups

Results are determined using a percentage-based multi-disability standard relevant to each athlete’s classification.

For supporting documents and rules of competition, please refer to the buttons below: