Brad Ness

Brad Ness is one of Australia’s most accomplished Paralympians, celebrated for his leadership, resilience, and remarkable achievements in elite sport. A five-time Paralympian and former captain of the Australian men’s wheelchair basketball team, the Oz Rollers, Brad has inspired audiences around the world through his determination to overcome adversity and perform at the highest level.

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Brad Ness is one of Australia’s most accomplished Paralympians, celebrated for his leadership, resilience, and remarkable achievements in elite sport. A five-time Paralympian and former captain of the Australian men’s wheelchair basketball team, the Oz Rollers, Brad has inspired audiences around the world through his determination to overcome adversity and perform at the highest level.

Following a workplace accident that changed the course of his life, Brad channelled his focus into sport, education, and personal development. His journey from rehabilitation to international success has made him a powerful advocate for resilience, adaptability, and achieving excellence despite life’s unexpected challenges. Combining lived experience with years of elite competition, he delivers authentic and impactful insights that resonate with audiences from all backgrounds.

Brad’s distinguished sporting career includes a Paralympic gold medal in Beijing, silver medals in Athens and London, and a World Championship title in 2010. He had the honour of carrying the Australian flag at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games and was recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia for his outstanding contribution to sport. His career also saw him compete professionally throughout Europe, including more than a decade playing in Italy, while representing Australia on the world stage.

Beyond basketball, Brad has participated in international leadership and advocacy initiatives, including mentoring landmine survivors and representing Australia at global sporting and community events. Today, he is a sought-after keynote speaker who inspires audiences with practical lessons on leadership, perseverance, teamwork, and embracing change. His presentations challenge people to rethink what is possible and provide a fresh perspective on overcoming obstacles to achieve extraordinary results.

Speaking Topics: 

  • Cultural safety in the workplace
  • Overcoming adversity
  • My accident – Tool Box safety talk workshop
  • Making it happen
  • Inclusion and diversity
  • Building Resilience
  • Team building clinic

  • Excellent, what an inspiration and down to earth conversation that holds the attention!

    Water Corporation
  • The positives I got out of Brad’s presentation were that he was genuine and made the story very real. He took us on the journey with him and his raw emotions made the presentation very inspirational.

    National Sales & Marketing Manager, Toll Global Forwarding
  • I thought Brad’s presentation was very inspirational. I also loved the way he relayed parts of his discussion back to our business environment and really enjoyed his vibe and story build up. I would love to have him speak at another function possibly for our sales program awards in New Zealand in November.

    General Manager, Group Business Development - Trans Tasman
  • Brad's story has a powerful message that strongly relates to the safety outcomes we are looking to achieve across our business. The attendees were engaged from beginning to end. This will really help the cultural journey we are on.

    Aroona Alliance

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