The focus of the AFL’s Multicultural Round has been secured in Western Sydney as part of a four-year partnership with the NSW Government.
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Ray Williams today announced the NSW Government has committed $480,000 over four years to support the official launch of the AFL’s Multicultural Round, a marquee game and a coinciding multicultural festival in Western Sydney.
“No other city in Australia is as culturally diverse as Sydney, and no city puts on a better show inclusive of everyone,” Mr Williams said.
“Locking in this fantastic event is a big win for Sydneysiders, a win for the AFL and a win for our harmonious and diverse multicultural society. This iconic game is a sport for all Australians and the AFL are true champions of diversity, which especially engages and inspires young people.”
“The AFL’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in sport is one of our key strategic pillars and nowhere is this more prevalent than Western Sydney.” AFL NSW/ACT Chief Executive Officer Sam Graham said.
“Multicultural Round acknowledges the vital contribution diverse communities have made to the game and we are committed to encouraging new communities to embrace the game in the future. Our partnership with the NSW Government stands testament to this and I’d like to thank Minister Williams and Multicultural NSW for their support.”
Multicultural NSW Chief Executive Officer Hakan Harman said he was delighted the AFL NSW/ACT is becoming a Major Partner of the agency.
“We look forward to working together with the AFL to provide the best advice about driving social cohesion outcomes and making a positive contribution to our diverse community,” Mr Harman said.
“Sport is one of the best ways of breaking barriers and engaging all members of our multicultural society. We applaud the AFL NSW/ACT on their commitment to building our multicultural society.”
The 2017 AFL Multicultural Round will be launched in July 2017. The round will showcase a marquee game in Sydney between the GWS GIANTS and Fremantle which will coincide with a multicultural festival.
