Newly arrived refugees in South Australia will have access to sporting events as well opportunities in volunteering, education, employment and community engagement thanks to a new partnership between A League soccer club Adelaide United and settlement agency AMES Australia. 

The partnership is aimed at supporting the settlement and integration of newly arrived communities across South Australia through the inclusive power of sport, youth engagement, and community-focused programs.

The collaboration will see AMES and Adelaide United work together to deliver a range of initiatives, including dedicated multicultural matchdays during Harmony Week, pre-match citizenship ceremonies, junior development clinics, youth engagement events, and volunteer opportunities, all designed to promote social inclusion and cultural understanding.

At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to empowering individuals and communities through sport. 

A key focus will be the development of female-focused football programs, fostering participation, leadership, and confidence among girls and young women from diverse backgrounds. 

These programs will also incorporate AMES’ “Sport for Respect” initiative, using football as a platform to promote respect, prevent domestic and gender-based violence, and champion positive role models in the community. 

AMES CEO, Catherine Scarth welcomes the partnership, highlighting its potential to support long-term settlement outcomes for migrants and refugees. 

“Football is the world game, and it has the power to bring diverse communities and people together. We value our partnership with Adelaide United because of the opportunities it presents for our clients and the communities we work with in terms of access to sport, community engagement, education and employment,” Ms Scarth said. 

SA Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Emily Bourke said the partnership is a key step towards inclusive community development. 

“Our government is proud to support initiatives that increase participation and create a more inclusive environment through sport. This partnership sets out to provide opportunities for girls and women to achieve their goals on and off the pitch, which we continue to build through programs like The Power of Her.” 

Nathan Kosmina, CEO of Adelaide United, said the partnership closely aligns with the Club’s core values of inclusion and community connection.

“Our purpose extends far beyond the pitch. This partnership with AMES is a natural extension of our values of inclusion, respect, and empowerment. By using football as a vehicle for social connection and opportunity, we’re proud to play a role helping newly arrived communities feel welcome and supported as they begin their new lives in South Australia.” 

As part of the agreement, Adelaide United will also share access to Club facilities for AMES-led initiatives, including youth engagement workshops, community meetings, and collaborative planning sessions fostering a professional and welcoming environment for all.