The scheme, led by the Australian Paralympic Committee (APC), aims to raise money to send 170 athletes, competing in 15 sports, to this year’s Paralympic Games.

According to the APC, they require a total of around AUD$7 million (£3.5 million/$5 million/€4.5 million) to fund their Rio 2016 campaign.

The initiative relies on public donations and will unify existing fundraising programmes under the APF umbrella in order to “pave the way for a sustainable financial future for the Australian Paralympic team”.

The APC have confirmed further sponsorship announcements will be made in the near future, including news of a national fundraising event which is due to include major media in the country as well as corporate sponsors of the governing body.

“The Rio 2016 Paralympic Games are fast approaching and we are committed to making sure every team member selected to compete makes it to the starting line,” APC Board member John Hartigan said.

“Following tremendous support last year from public and private donations we are halfway to reaching our funding goals.

“The Foundation exists to ensure no athlete will be left behind due to monetary barriers when they should be representing our country in Rio.

“The Foundation structure and fundraising activities will support a new era of sporting success in Australia.

“We are here to help every individual reach their full sporting potential and ultimately represent Australia at future Paralympic Games.

“This year Australia has a team of amazingly talented athletes waiting to show us all what they’re made of.

“Let’s get them to Rio 2016 to achieve their dreams.”

The donation from chocolate giant Cadbury comes as part of their own campaign to generate support for Australian athletes who will compete in Rio de Janeiro, which they have called “bring on the joy”.

The campaign microsite, available here allows Australians to send messages of support for those heading to the Olympics and Paralympics.

“We are delighted to be able to help make a difference and honoured to be a major partner of the Australian Paralympic team,” said Kjetil Undhjem, category director chocolate, ANZ.

“In the coming months, Cadbury will be continuing to provide the Foundation and the Paralympians with our full support ahead of the big event in September.”

The Australian athletes who are due to participate in Rio will be hoping to improve on their medal tally from London 2012, where they earned a haul of 85 medals.

This included 32 gold, 23 silver and 30 bronze.

The Rio 2016 Paralympic Games take place from September 7 to 18.

The APF website can be viewed here, where fans can donate to the campaign.