Labor joins with all Australians in congratulating our athletes who competed at the 2016 Paralympic Games which ended this morning in Rio. 

We have been captivated by so many brilliant performances, all of which have made our nation proud.  

Our 177-strong team excelled and showed why our Paralympians are among the best athletes in the world. 

Australia finished fifth on the overall medal count from more than 200 countries, winning 22 gold, 30 silver and 29 bronze medals. 

This continues Australia’s streak of top five finishes at every Games since 1992. 

Every Paralympian had a remarkable story to tell of overcoming adversity, and of courage, determination and sporting prowess. 

The nail-biting finish to the rugby final saw Australia triumph against the United States 59-58 in overtime. 

The success of 15-year-old Tiffany Thomas of Sydney setting a record in the 100 metres breaststroke was one of many highlights by an individual. 

We all felt enormous pride when war hero and gold medallist Curtis McGrath was the flag bearer for Australia at the closing ceremony today. 

The Paralympic Games remind us all that we must continue to strive for a country where every Australian with disability is empowered with equal dignity and equal opportunity. 

Labor also acknowledges the dedication and hard work of the team behind our Paralympians-  the families, carers, coaches, schools, medical teams and supporters of every Paralympic contender.

Our thoughts are also with the family and friends of Iranian cyclist Bahman Golbarnezhad who died after a horrific crash while competing. 

MONDAY, 19 SEPTEMBER 2016