Kieren Perkins OAM

Kieren Perkins OAM's Biography

Kieren Perkins OAM is a hero of the Australian sporting arena. From Captain of Swimming at Brisbane Boys' College in 1990, to dual Olympic gold medalist just six years later, Kieren has added an impressively long list of awards and achievements to his name.

Kieren has held 18 Australian records, 3 World records, and 3 Commonwealth records and has represented Australia all over the world, including Monte Carlo, Rome, Auckland, Canada, Barcelona, Atlanta and, of course, at the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Before the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Kieren described the famous 1500 metre freestyle victory at the Barcelona Olympic Games, which saw him set a new World Record, as his greatest swimming victory. In 1993 his achievements were recognised with the Young Australian of the Year Award, and the Order of Australia Medal.

Kieren Perkins domination of the 1500 metre freestyle event looked to be over during the run up to the Atlanta Olympics. He barely made the Olympic team and then qualified for the 1500 metre final with the slowest time. It was in the race he proved his incredible strength, determination and athleticism to the world. Blitzing the field, he won a truly memorable gold medal. His outstanding victory captured the hearts of Australia. Following his silver medal swim at the Sydney 2000 Games, Kieren announced his retirement and moved his family to Sydney shortly after to begin the next chapter of his life.

Since then, Kieren has moved into the role of corporate ambassador and media personality.  He has been appointed to the board of the Starlight Children's Foundation and was a reporter for the Sydney based program Weekend.  During the World Swimming Championships in Fukuoka, he was also seen across the nation as a reporter on A Current Affair. Kieren was a partner in his own business development and training firm, offering companies advice on leadership and organisational culture. 

Since his retirement from competition Kieren has been appointed to the board of the Australian Sports Commission and has moved into the role of corporate ambassador and media personality.

Kieren undertook the role of Head of Business Development and Acquisitions at NAB Private Wealth in Melbourne.

November 2020 also saw Kieren named the President of Swimming Australia.

An impressive speaker, Kieren's draws on his experiences to inspire audiences to work as a team, set goals, create pathways to achieve them then deliver - regardless of pressures and distractions. He motivates and inspires self belief and is an excellent performer as MC or presenter on the public speaking circuit.

Kieren’s story of motivation, determination and success will inspire every audience.

Speaking Topics Include

Kieren’s new keynote Resilience (pre and post COVID-19) weaves his experience both as an Olympian (1500m Champion- the toughest and longest race in Swimming) and his current position as a Senior Executive at a large organisation.

Resilience - How do we make good decisions under pressure and deliver our potential when it matters

Challenging times can make it difficult for us to keep the consequences and outcomes in perspective

Recognise the strength within and how to bring out that strength when under pressure

Build the right team culture around you, to create the support needed for sustained success

Share take home strategies to build and practice your resilience

Kieren uses his sporting and business experience to help others find their own potential

Overcoming challenges from Lane 8 - Olympic themed keynote.

Building the right culture

Change Management – the will to succeed

Teambuilding, leadership and perseverance