Both organisations have entered in to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the two organisations work in partnership.

Particular areas of focus will include recognising RDA competition as a pathway to Para-equestrian, development of a joint equestrian classification process which will increase opportunities for riders with disabilities to become classified for competition, recognition of prior learning opportunities for coaches of each organisation and a sharing of educational resources. 

The RDA will also becomes a support partner of the junior programme "Ready Set Trot" with affiliated centres now able to offer the programme and use it as a way to raise money for their club. 

“The MoU between Equestrian Australia and Riding for the Disabled will lead to closer cooperation on many levels, from participation and development to education and high performance," said Grant Baldock, chief executive of Equestrian Australian.  

“We recognises the role that RDA plays in the pathway to Para-equestrian competition and the MoU will see both organisations working collaboratively to increase the opportunities for riders with disabilities to become classified for competition. 

“RDA has long been a training ground for Australia’s Para-equestrians with many of our leading riders starting out with RDA.

"The signing of the MoU will make it easier for those athletes who want to take that next step in the competition pathway.”

At London 2012 Australia won one Paralympic medal in equestrian, Joann Formosa claiming gold in the Individual championship test grade Ib.

She attributed her success on the international stage to the support of RDA and Equestrain Australia. 

“I’m forever grateful to both organisations for their assistance to getting me to where I am today," she said.

“Through RDA I was able to get back into riding after my accident and their support of me during that transition period was invaluable.

"It was at the RDA Nationals that I was first identified and encouraged to be graded as a Para-Equestrian.

"Since then, the support that I’ve received from EA has helped me to achieve my goals. 

“I am happy to hear that Equestrian Australia and RDA will be working closely for the benefit of riders with a disability.”  

RDA executive officer Karen Asprey added: “This MoU represents a new era of cooperative relationships between RDA and Equestrian Australia and the outcomes can only increase the opportunities and benefits for riders. 

"We look forward to collaborating on new and exciting projects and strengthening the relationship between our two organisations.  

“Specifically this is a great opportunity to provide riders with a smooth transition and pathway to higher level equestrian training and competition performance in the national and international arena.”