Frequently Asked Questions
We are excited to welcome athletes, families, supporters, and volunteers from around the world to the 9th World Dwarf Games on the Gold Coast, Australia.
Below you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Games. As planning continues, more information will be added, so please check back regularly for updates.
If your question is not listed here, please feel free to contact us through the contact form on the website.
The 9th World Dwarf Games will be held on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, from 11–19 August 2027.
All sporting events will be held across three venues on the Gold Coast. More detailed information about each venue and the sports scheduled at each location will be available soon. Please check back for updates.
The final competition schedule will be released several weeks before the Games begin. This allows the schedule to be finalised based on the number of athlete registrations.
Individuals with any type of dwarfism are eligible to compete in events sanctioned or approved by the International Dwarf Sports Federation (IDSF).
For disproportionate dysplasia, maximum height requirements are: Males 5 ft 2 in (157.5 cm), Females 5 ft (152.4 cm). For proportionate dysplasia: Males 5 ft (152.4 cm), Females 4 ft 10 in (147.3 cm).
Athletes with proportionate short stature must provide confirmation of their genetic condition during classification.
All athletes participating in IDSF-sanctioned events must complete classification before competition begins. Classification can be completed either through a recognised classification officer in your home country, or during registration at the beginning of the Games.
If you are unsure whether your country has a registered classification officer, please contact your Chef de Mission or the IDSF directly.
The World Dwarf Games offer events for athletes of many ages, from Futures athletes (6 years and under) through to the Masters division, with no maximum age.
As dormitory-style accommodation is not common in Australia, we are currently liaising with suitable accommodation providers near the venues. Our goal is to secure convenient and comfortable options for all participants. We appreciate your patience while these arrangements are being finalised.
Yes. We are currently working with several transport providers on the Gold Coast and aim to provide transport between venues and official accommodation on all competition days.
We anticipate registration will open approximately 6–8 months before the Games, with registration closing around 3 months prior to the event. We recognise that international travel can be expensive and are committed to keeping the Games as accessible and affordable as possible. More detailed information, including estimated registration fees, will be provided in the coming months.
We are currently working on meal package options for participants during the Games. More information will be announced soon.
WDG2027 will include all core IDSF sports: badminton, basketball, boccia, football, swimming, and track & field. Additionally: archery and powerlifting.
We warmly welcome volunteers and greatly appreciate your interest in helping make WDG2027 a success. A volunteer registration form will be distributed to participating countries in the coming months.
Absolutely. We warmly welcome spectators and supporters who wish to help create a positive, inclusive, and inspiring environment for athletes with dwarfism. Spectator entry to the World Dwarf Games is free of charge.
The Short Statured People of Australia (SSPA) are currently preparing an official invitation letter for participating countries. This document can be used as supporting evidence for visa applications and will be distributed in the coming months. As Australia has specific visa requirements, we also recommend contacting the Australian Consulate or Embassy in your country for further guidance.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help! Contact us with any questions about registration, travel, accommodations, or anything else related to WDG2027.