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13 Jan, 2012

Australian Football, Post Office Team Up to Promote Community Cohesion

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11 January 2012 (Australia Post media release) — The Australian Football League and Australia Post have joined forces to connect individuals and communities through their love of football. The Australia Post Community Inclusion Program will involve AFL teams visiting local schools and community groups, football carnivals in each State and the first ever schools letter writing program with a special focus on football.

AFL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Demetriou said the AFL was proud to partner with Australia Post. “The partnership will encourage AFL fans to support inclusion in their community through fun and educational activities,” said Mr Demetriou.

Australia Post Managing Director and CEO Ahmed Fahour said Australia Post was excited to be working with the AFL to bring young Australians together, irrespective of backgrounds and beliefs.

“We are a part of every community in Australia and are uniquely placed to work with the AFL in this way. We want to create united and inclusive communities across the country, where individuals and groups can thrive,” said Mr Fahour.

“Team sports, like Australian Football, have the great ability to bring people together and our partnership will show young Australians what great things can be achieved when we all work as one team.”

The Australia Post Community Inclusion Program comprises three main initiatives:

  • Australia Post AFL Community Camps
    More than 800 AFL players from all of the teams will visit communities throughout Australia to promote social cohesion, encourage participation in Australian Football, conduct training sessions and visit schools, nursing homes and hospitals.
  • Schools Letter Writing Program
    The AFL and Australia Post will work with schools across Australia to develop students’ literacy through letter writing.
  • Australia Post Schools Cup
    The AFL will hold the Australia Post Schools Cup, where students from more than 300 primary schools participate in State based football carnivals, as part of this program eight high-profile players have been chosen as multi-cultural ambassadors to teach kids about the importance of diversity and working together, regardless of backgrounds and beliefs. Australia Post will also play an active part in the AFL’s multi-cultural round, helping to promote the diverse backgrounds and beliefs in Australia.

The first Australia Post AFL Community Camp kicked off on 29 November 2011 with the West Coast Eagles visiting Broome. Team players visited local schools, nursing homes and hospitals as well as running a coaching clinic for local junior football players.