Kicking goals for NT footy
The Albanese Government is pleased to announce $4.7 million over two years in funding to boost participation amongst First Nations women and girls, as well as at risk youth in football across the Northern Territory.
The joint funding arrangement with the Australian Football League program and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) includes:
- $2.2m of ASC funding to support women and girls participate in AFL training and competitions across the Northern Territory.
- $2.5m of National Indigenous Australians Agency funding to increase participation of young people, including at risk youth in AFL
The funding will also focus on building local leadership and community participation and boosting local employment outcomes.
Quotes attributable to Minister Anika Wells
“The Albanese Government’s investment in sport encourages more Australians to participate in sport and physical activity, brings communities together, boosts the economy and supports our elite athletes to pursue sporting success on the global stage.
“I am passionate about sport being inclusive and accessible to all. A third of all players in the AFLNT are women and this funding will help propel their dreams of taking a screamer at the G.”
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McCarthy:
“Increased participation in sport can have a positive impact on Closing the Gap outcomes including school attendance and wellbeing.
“Community football is such an important part of life right across the Northern Territory.
“This funding will provide a greater opportunity for women and young people in remote communities to have fun, stay fit and pursue their interest in sport.”
Quotes from AFL CEO-elect Andrew Dillon
“The AFL has a proud history of working with remote communities across the Northern Territory starting with a community-led initiative in Wadeye in 2008.
“Community leaders saw it as an important way to engage with young people.
“Since then, programs have expanded to different parts of the Northern Territory and this funding will support a further expansion.
Quotes attributable to Sam Gibson Head of AFLNT
“Remote programs have become a key pillar of the work of AFLNT across the NT with a focus on working collaboratively with other stakeholders in the delivery of football for non-football outcomes.
“This funding will allow us to expand programs that use football to engage young Indigenous people across the Territory.
“Participation in AFL programs promotes health and education outcomes, and provides pathways to employment for young people in NT communities.”