Kickstarting Careers of First Nations Youth
At AFL SportsReady, we know that strong futures are built through strong partnerships. That’s why we’re inviting communities, schools and organisations to join us in supporting First Nations young people.
The Warumilang Deadly Kickstart program connects young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with meaningful opportunities that combine paid work, education and dedicated First Nations mentorship.
By providing hands-on experience and tailored support, the Warumilang Deadly Kickstart program helps young people grow in confidence, gain valuable skills and build a strong foundation for their future.
We’re calling on communities, schools and organisations to help us identify young people who could benefit from Warumilang Deadly Kickstart. Whether they’re still at school, just finished or already studying at university, we have a range of culturally safe pathways to offer.
If you know a First Nations young person who’s ready to take the next step, reach out to Eliza on eliza.peterson@aflsportsready.com.au
Program Opportunities
We offer a range of programs tailored to meet young people wherever they are in their journey. From school-based traineeships to full-time traineeships to university cadetships, our programs provide real-world experience, formal qualifications and cultural support.
We are proud to offer opportunities across a variety of industries, including sport, the AFL, business, education, the arts and community services. We are committed to helping young people explore their interests, develop skills and take confident steps toward their career goals.
School-Based Traineeship (SBT)
For secondary students 16+
A School-Based Traineeship allows students to work one day per week (state requirements may vary) while completing their senior secondary studies and a nationally recognised qualification.
- Paid real-world work experience while at school
- Hands-on training in a supportive workplace
- A great first step into a future career
Traineeships
For young people who have completed or are about to complete school
Our traineeships offer full-time or part-time paid employment combined with formal education, leading to a nationally recognised qualification.
- Paid employment that builds practical skills and confidence
- Debt-free nationally recognised qualification
- Range of industries including sport, arts, community, education and business
- Pathway into meaningful employment or study
First Nations Cadetship
For university students seeking professional experience
The First Nations Cadetship program offers paid, practical workplace experience in a role aligned with a student’s university degree. First Nations mentors provide support to cadets as they work up to 50 paid days per year while studying.
- Paid employment in your chosen field
- Build your resume and workplace confidence
- Strong mentorship and cultural support
- Fortnightly study and book/equipment allowance
- Pathway to graduate employment
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What sets the Warumilang Program apart is our commitment to genuine wraparound support. Every young person in our program is paired with a dedicated First Nations mentor offering cultural guidance, career advice and personal support. We don’t just place young people into roles, we walk alongside them throughout their journey.
With opportunities available right across Australia, we’re proud to provide culturally safe, meaningful pathways that help young First Nations people thrive, no matter where they’re starting from.
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Let’s kickstart the careers of First Nations youth, together! To learn more, please reach out to Eliza at eliza.peterson@aflsportsready.com.au
See What’s Possible with Deadly Kickstart
From classrooms to boardrooms, young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are making their mark through the Warumilang Deadly Kickstart program. With culturally safe support, paid employment and nationally recognised training, our participants are stepping into meaningful careers and inspiring others along the way.
These success stories are just a few examples of what’s possible when community, opportunity and culture come together.
