The pair will be the first captains of the Australian contingent since Athens 2004 and will work closely with McLoughlin in the build-up to and during this summer’s Games in the Brazilian city.

The move to appoint team captains is not due to the concerns over the problems athletes might face at Rio 2016, according to McLoughlin, who feels the appointment of Fearnley and Di Toro will provide great benefits to the nation’s competitors.

“It is without question that Kurt and Daniela’s extensive experience and natural leadership skills will not only help in developing a vision for the team, but in creating a legacy for future Paralympic teams,” McLoughlin said.

“Together, they will be the bridge between the individual greatness of our athletes and their connection to the wider Australian team.

“And as leaders, I have immense confidence in both Danni and Kurt to build a strong sense of identity among the Team as we all strive for a common goal.

“I am delighted to appoint Daniela and Kurt to this prestigious role, and I know they will provide so much value to their team mates by drawing upon their own experiences, sharing the highs and lows of their journeys, and building the values and foundations of our team well before the Games so that when the team arrives in Rio, athletes can focus on what they need to do to succeed, knowing there is a support network behind them.”

Di Toro has competed at five Paralympic Games and will make her debut in table tennis at Rio 2016 after injuries forced an end to her tennis career.

She won doubles silver at Sydney 2000 before claiming individual bronze at Athens 2004 and also won 12 Australian Open titles, four US Open crowns and four French Open titles.

Fearnley, meanwhile, clinched gold in both the T54 5,000 metres and marathon events in Athens, before he defended his Paralympic title in Beijing four years later.

The 34-year-old also has four world crowns to his name and he says he is looking forward to serving as captain for this year’s Paralympics, which get underway with the Opening Ceremony on September 7.

“It’s incredibly exciting to be named captain along with one of my favourite people in the world, Daniela Di Toro,” Fearnley said.

“To be part of creating an open, understanding and caring environment in what can be one of the most highly stressful times of any athlete’s lives is a huge honour and I’m very proud to have been selected.”