Paralympian and tennis player Heath Davidson will be one of many athletes competing for Australia in Tokyo in August ©Getty Images

Paralympics Australia has launched its own fan engagement platform to boost the reputation of para-sport in the country before Tokyo 2020.

AUS Squad aims to support Australian Paralympic athletes by giving Australians access to behind-the-scenes content and therefore an insight into the preparation of the athletes ahead of the Games. 

Due to the lack of live coverage of para-sport before Tokyo 2020, AUS Squad gives relevant information to those who have signed up and will make it easier to learn about new events, it is hoped. 

Extra incentives include special offers and experiences from Paralympics Australia and its partners, as well as newsletters and access to merchandise.

Speaking on Friday, Lynne Anderson, Paralympics Australia chief executive, said: “With today marking 200 days to go until the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, we are beyond thrilled to be launching AUS Squad to Australia’s para-sport fans.

“The support of the Australian public is one of the main drivers for our athletes to train hard each day and it certainly makes them proud to wear the green and gold.

James Turner took one of Australia's 22 Paralympic golds in Rio, their lowest total since 1980 ©Getty Images
James Turner took one of Australia's 22 Paralympic golds in Rio, their lowest total since 1980 ©Getty Images

“To thank Australians for backing us over the years, we have created a space especially for them to engage with our team and follow their journey, and it will also hopefully strengthen the relationship between our athletes and new fans, and help them enjoy Paralympic sport to its fullest extent.”

Two-time Paralympian Ahmed Kelly said he cannot wait for fans for fans to try the platform and follow his and his team-mates' journeys.

“The support we receive from the wider Australian public means everything to us, and it’s the single thing that allows us to do what we love most,” Kelly said.

“Knowing that Australians can get another look into the team and engage with us before the Games begin gives me an extra boost to train even harder.”

Australia had their best Games in Sydney in 2000, topping the medal table, and finished fifth at Rio 2016 with 22 medals.

Fans can join AUS Squad at www.aussquad.org.au.