Tristan
Knowles OAM

Tristan Knowles OAM is one of Australia’s most accomplished Paralympians and a globally respected voice on high performance, resilience and human potential. A six‑time Paralympian and World Champion, Tristan has spent more than two decades competing at the highest level of international wheelchair basketball, earning Paralympic Gold, back‑to‑back World Championship titles, and the honour of captaining the Australian Men’s Wheelchair Basketball Team.

Diagnosed with cancer as a child, Tristan’s journey has been defined by choosing challenge over circumstance. His lived experience, combined with the discipline and mindset forged through elite sport, has shaped him into a powerful storyteller and educator whose message resonates across industries and audiences.

Beyond the court, Tristan has built a successful corporate career in financial services, leading various teams of advice professionals and applying the same principles that drive world‑class athletic performance: clarity of purpose, accountability, culture, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. For more than a decade, he has delivered keynote presentations and workshops for organisations including McDonald’s, AIA, AMP and many others, inspiring teams to elevate their standards and unlock their potential.

Authentic, engaging and deeply human, Tristan Knowles brings a rare combination of elite sporting achievement, leadership experience and personal resilience. His insights challenge audiences to rethink what is possible, and his impact endures long after the applause.