The State Government has teamed up with the Port Adelaide Football Club to support an AFL-first program helping South Australian veterans to discover a new sense of purpose and community connection post-service.
Port Adelaide’s Australian Defence Force Veterans Program—the only program of its kind run by an AFL club—brings former defence personnel and ex-AFL players together for a six-week program, empowering veterans to hear from past players and learn new skills as they transition into the next stage of their lives.
The program kicks off next month, and draws parallels between the elite environments of both fields, offering ways to tackle the uncertainty that many experience after either career.
Sessions will be hosted by past Port Adelaide players, skilled professionals and local organisations, with key themes including goal setting, relationships, leadership and mental health and wellbeing.
The State Government is investing $240,000, through Veterans SA to ensure the program can continue to support the veteran community over the next four years.
The investment is part of a $2.1 million State Budget commitment to improve outcomes for veterans and their families, with a host of initiatives being rolled out.
Applications are now open for the 2024 ADF Veterans Program and veterans are encouraged to register by emailing Power Community Ltd via [email protected]. More information is available on the club’s website.
Port Adelaide has a strong and proud connection to military service, with 164 past players serving for their country over the club’s 154-year history.