Mission Australia – North Queensland Fury’s official charity

During August 2010, North Queensland Fury FC announced an innovative three-year partnership with Mission Australia, which will see the two organisations work together to address Indigenous disadvantage in North Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Mission Australia is one of Australia’s largest not-for-profit providers of community and employment services, with a strong history of engagement with Indigenous communities.

This unique partnership, the first of its kind in Australian sporting history, will see Mission Australia use the power of sport via the vehicle of North Queensland Fury FC, to connect with and motivate individuals and communities.

NQ Fury FC Chief Executive Officer Rabieh Krayem and Mission Australia Employment Solutions’ Executive Leader Dr Prins Ralston said the partnership aimed to improve health, education, training and job prospects among indigenous people, especially young people.

Fury coaches, players and administrative staff would work with Mission to design and deliver programs in areas such as youth mentoring, release programs in gaols, as well certificate level courses in coaching and sports administration.

The partnership aimed in the first year to engage up to 150 people, including 60 prisoners, with a target of 30 employment outcomes.

To help promote this partnership, the Mission Australia corporate logo will be displayed on the front of the Fury’s playing shirts (home and away) and will enjoy strong branding at Fury home fixtures. Mission Australia will also be the Fury’s “charity of choice” during this period.
“This partnership provides much needed funds into our club and helps our sustainability, but just as importantly it is an active demonstration of our commitment to make a difference in the community.

“The partnership benefits strongly from Mission’s deep knowledge and experience and the Fury’s potential influence across Northern Australia.”

Dr Prins Ralston said Mission Australia was excited about the partnership and the opportunities it presented to improve Indigenous welfare at the grassroots level.
“All around the world, sport is used in communities suffering disadvantage to motivate, build skills and transform people’s lives.

“Football is a great way for people to engage in a safe, non-threatening team environment, and offers plenty of opportunities to build meaningful support programs that are attractive and fun.

“We see the work of Mission Australia and the community ethos of the Fury as a terrific natural fit and we are looking forward to building a lasting relationship and delivering lasting legacies,” Dr Ralston said.

For more details about Mission Australia, go to www.missionaustralia.com.au