The Wanderers Foundation has launched a groundbreaking new Weekly Indigenous Program, creating a pathway for First Nations youth to engage with football, culture, and community in one of the most diverse regions in Australia.
Held at Wanderers Football Park, the program provides an opportunity for Indigenous participants to come together every week to learn new skills, improve their mental and physical wellbeing, and strengthen connections both on and off the pitch.
The launch began with a powerful Acknowledgement of Country and smoking ceremony led by Troy Dargan from the Kari Foundation, setting the tone for a program deeply grounded in respect, inclusion, and culture.
This 40-week initiative celebrates the rich Indigenous heritage of Western Sydney, where one in five First Nations people across Australia call home. While Indigenous athletes have long excelled in sports like AFL and NRL, they remain underrepresented in football. The Wanderers Foundation’s new program aims to change that.
Through expert coaching and mentorship, participants will build confidence, resilience, teamwork, and self-esteem, with pathways into opportunities such as the Wanderers Boys and Girls Academies and even future coaching roles.
But beyond football, the program’s true impact lies in fostering social connection, creating a space for young people to meet new friends, share experiences, and celebrate their culture together.
The Wanderers Foundation’s vision has been made possible thanks to the generosity of several key supporters.
The Foundation acknowledges Bibbulmun Fund, a fund of Fremantle Foundation, whose contribution through grant funding has played an instrumental role in bringing this program to life. Additional support has come from Direct Ergonomics, an Indigenous-owned office furniture business based in Artarmon, led by Donna and Tom, as well as Andy Cornish, Wanderers Foundation Development Club Chair and donor.
The Wanderers Foundation also extends its gratitude to the Kari Foundation, Clontarf Foundation, and Fresh Start Australia for helping spread awareness and engagement for the program across the community.
As the sessions get underway, the Weekly Indigenous Program stands as a reflection of what football, and the Wanderers community, does best: uniting people through sport, culture and shared purpose.
