Australian Football is the connection

Australian Football is the sport of choice for Indigenous Australians.

This is clearly demonstrated by:

• 2.5% of the total Australian population -11% of AFL lists
• 10% of the 2008 National Draft
• 90,000 participants in Australian Football programs

This connection provides a unique opportunity for Indigenous and Non Indigenous Australians to work together in partnership.

Acknowledge

• The AFL acknowledges Indigenous Australians are Traditional Custodians of this land and have been practicing culture for over 60,000 years.
• The AFL acknowledges and respects the customs, values and traditions of Indigenous people and their special relationship with the land.

Recognise

• The AFL recognises Indigenous peoples’ contribution to Australian football and their importance to the growth of the game. 
• The AFL values and benefits from the skills, knowledge, experience and culture of Indigenous people
• We recognise family life is the core of Aboriginal community life and these relationships involve particular sets of social and cultural obligations.

Community Development

• The AFL seek to use Australian Football as the vehicle to improve the quality of life in communities throughout Australia.
• We are committed to working in partnership with Indigenous people and other stakeholders to improve:
• employment
• education
• health and participation outcomes for Indigenous people and their communities at a local level.

Reconciliation

• The AFL will promote Indigenous and non Indigenous people working together to progress reconciliation. Reconciliation will be achieved when there is respect for and recognition of cultural diversity.
• We are committed to the reduction of racism and discrimination; all our community must enjoy equal rights and be treated with equal respect. This is exemplified by our award winning Religious and Racial Vilification policy.

Commitment

• This commitment will be administered through our Indigenous Framework, our Indigenous Programs and our Indigenous Employment Strategy.