Classification is an assessment process that separates athletes with similar levels of functional ability into groups or ‘classes’, so that they can compete in fair and equal competitions.
The same principle applies in able-bodied sports where athletes are classified according to age, gender or weight divisions to allow for as fair competition as possible.
Each sport has its own classification system to reflect its specific athletic skills and requirements. This means that athletes with a disability who compete in more than one sport will receive a different classification for each sport. Click here for a detailed description of sport-specific classification systems.
During the classification process, a trained classifier assesses an athlete’s eligibility to compete in disability sport based on how their impairment influences their sporting ability.
Note: Classification is not required for general participation in disability sport, such as playing social wheelchair basketball.
Download our Classification fact sheet for more information about classification for athletes with different types of disabilities.
Classification Days
Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association holds classification days throughout the year for people with a disability to be assessed. There is no charge to Association members for a classification assessment.
Provisional Classification
For athletes unable to attend an official classification day, or seeking classification before the next classification day, we offer a provisional classification service. Please note the forms below are for provisional classifications coordinated through Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association. Refer to our Classification fact sheet for more details.
If you have any queries about classification, contact the Classification team at our Brisbane office or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
