Badminton Australia has released the Falcons Selection Framework and Guidance for 2026, outlining a clearer and more transparent approach to how athletes are selected and supported within the high-performance system.
This document is designed to bring consistency to the selection process, while helping athletes and coaches better understand what it takes to progress through the Falcons program and represent Australia internationally.
Athletes and their coaches, in collaboration with BA High Performance staff, will assess progress through the Individual Performance Plan process, identifying key development areas and benchmarking performance against national and international standards for their age and stage.
Key Features:
Three-Tier Falcons Structure
- Tier 1: Athletes aligned to Olympic qualification in the current cycle
- Tier 2: Athletes demonstrating international competitiveness
- Tier 3: Top national athletes progressing towards international level or significant contributors to the environment
Holistic Selection Criteria
Selection decisions are based on four key factors:
- Tournament Results
- Training and Tournament Commitment
- Performance Behaviours
- Athlete Abilities (current and future potential)
Clear Expectations and Standards
The framework outlines expectations across:
- Training volumes and competition exposure
- Performance behaviours (Leader, Learner, Contributor, Performer, Intensity)
- Technical, tactical & mental, physical
Defined Selection Cycles
- Primary selection: June each year
- Secondary review: December
- Ongoing monitoring of performance, behaviours and commitment throughout the year
This framework supports Badminton Australia’s focus on improving international performance, accelerating athlete development and creating a clearer pathway from national level through to Olympic performance.
We’re excited to share this body of work from the High Performance team, which represents a significant step forward in creating clarity, alignment and consistency across our national system.
Click here for Badminton Australia Falcons Selection Framework and Guidance Jan 2026.pdf
Photo credit: Badmintonphoto
