Brenden Hall OAM PLY is a highly respected Paralympic athlete and influential figure in Australian sports. Overcoming significant physical challenges, including 70% hearing loss and the amputation of his right leg, Brenden has achieved remarkable success in para-swimming. He first competed in the Paralympic Games in 2008 and won 2 gold medals and a bronze at the 2012 London Paralympics.
His achievements continued through the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, solidifying his status as a dominant force in the sport. Mr Hall is also pursuing a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Australian Catholic University and is a dedicated father, balancing his professional, academic and personal life. Beyond his athletic accomplishments, he is deeply committed to community service, volunteering with Surf Life Saving Australia and promoting the AIS Elite Athlete Education Network.
While competing in his 5th Paralympic Games in Paris in 2024, where he won bronze in the men’s S9 400 metres freestyle, Mr Hall was selected as one of Australia’s flag-bearers in recognition of his extraordinary contributions.
Do you have a favourite quote, motto or piece of advice to give to new graduates?
“I’ve learnt over the last few years to really lean into your failures so that you know how to learn from them. I’m a big believer that sometimes we learn the most about ourselves when we think we’ve had a failure moment. When we find a new path forward, we become a better version of ourselves.”
If you could snap your fingers and change one thing about the world, what would it be?
“To understand people with disabilities in an instant. We’re all just people but slightly different. We all want the opportunity to show our capabilities whether it’s in the Paralympics, working environments, as parents or just simple day to day activities like getting coffee with friends. It’s amazing how many times we’re seen as an ‘inspiration’ for doing a simple activity such as walking around the shopping centre with family.”
