Backup Required For Northern Territory AFL Plan

Member for Lingiari and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Northern Australia and Indigenous Affairs Warren Snowdon today welcomed the announcement of the AFL All Stars Ambassadors for Life mentoring program.

Mr Snowdon said he expected the program would build on the huge interest in the footy throughout remote Indigenous communities.

'It's particularly pleasing that Wadeye looks like one of the target communities for the program,' he said.

'But it has to be said that programs like this need to complement sound youth programs in communities right across the NT if they are to make any headway.

'There's a huge need for programs to build up physical and social skills and help young people work on self-esteem.

'While high-profile support is always welcome, it's crucial that program funding covers the appropriate infrastructure, skilled people and related youth programs on the ground in remote communities.

'Communities might have a youth centre, but unless it's got a youth worker and a comprehensive program – including good after-school care – it's likely that youth can't make the best use of the facility.

'At Kintore, for instance, they have the program and the workers, but there isn't a safe and positive place for young people to go to.

'Bring on the footy programs, by all means, but make sure they complement sustainable and properly planned, resourced and staffed programs for young people everywhere in remote communities,' Mr Snowdon said.

2007-03-21