Improving outcomes for young people through sport

The Australian Government has committed $200,000 to improve educational, employment and life outcomes for young Indigenous people across Shepparton and Echuca in Victoria.

The Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, said the Rumbalara Football and Netball Club’s Munarra Youth Futures project aims to encourage young people’s passion and dedication for sport in their school and work environment.

“The Club is determined to capture young people’s enthusiasm for sport and help them transfer this into their school and work life,” Ms Macklin said.

“The Munarra staff will work closely as mentors and positive role models with the participants and their parents to transfer the lessons learned in a sporting context to their engagement with their school and eventually to support a transition to employment.

“The model is based on all parties – young people, their parents, their Club and their school – making a commitment to support improved school and employment outcomes.”

Munarra Youth Futures is about giving these Indigenous young people education and opportunities in the future.

We congratulate Rumbalara Football for their continued success, not only on football fields and netball courts, but also in the wellbeing of its members, families and the broader community.

Munarra is open to all Indigenous young people attending school in years five to 12, with the greatest focus on key transition points from primary to secondary school, just prior to secondary school-leaving age, and the years 11 and 12.

The initial intake of Munarra Youth Futures will be up to 75 students across Shepparton and Echuca, and is expected to grow to 125 in 2010.

Participants will be required to maintain behavioural standards and school attendance, as well as adhering to the Club’s Code of Conduct.

The project is a joint initiative of the Australian Football League (AFL), AFL Victoria and Netball Australia.