Robyn Smith OAM Re-Elected to IPC Governing Board: A Respected Global Leader Strengthening the Future of Inclusive Sport
Virtus proudly announces that its President, Robyn Smith OAM, has been re-elected to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Governing Board as a Member-at-Large — reaffirming her position as one of the world’s most respected leaders in inclusive sport and athlete advocacy.
Smith’s re-election comes shortly after she made history as the first female President of Virtus, marking a defining moment for global inclusion. With more than 35 years of service in sport, governance and international development, Smith continues to lead with integrity, courage, and a deep commitment to ensuring that inclusion for all is delivered with humanity at heart.
Smith’s continued presence on the IPC Governing Board ensures that athletes with an intellectual impairment — one of the most under-represented groups in global sport — remain visible and valued at the highest levels of Paralympic decision-making.
Robyn Smith Reflects on Her Re-Election
“It is an honour to be re-elected to the IPC Governing Board. I learnt so much during my first term, and I look forward to the next four years working to strengthen opportunity, representation, and recognition for athletes with an intellectual impairment. We must remember that everything we do is built on the foundations laid by those before us. Their legacy drives us forward.”
Smith added: “I am grateful to Virtus for nominating me and to the Board and staff, as well as Sport Inclusion Australia for their continued support. Thank you also to all the IPC members that voted for me. Together, we will keep building a Paralympic movement that is inclusive, fair and globally representative.”
A Complex Election Demanding Resilience
This year’s IPC election process was uniquely challenging. Elections scheduled at the IPC General Assembly in Korea in September were postponed due to technical difficulties and rescheduled to a virtual meeting on 20 November.
Smith’s re-election through this extended process demonstrates strong global confidence in her leadership and experience.
Strategic Alignment With Brisbane 2032
Smith also serves on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee, where she contributes to long-term legacy, inclusion, and athlete pathway planning leading into the next decade of global sport.
The Virtus and the global family celebrates with Robyn Smith and congratulates the other seven Member at Large Board Members. Read the IPC statement here:
Smith is a leader of immense integrity, vision, and global respect. Her re-election to the IPC Governing Board reflects the trust the international community places in her ability to advance inclusion—not just for athletes with an intellectual impairment, but across the entire Paralympic Movement. She leads with empathy, courage and a relentless commitment to fairness. Virtus is proud to stand beside her.
