AFL Victoria, in partnership with Leisure Networks, AFL Barwon, and Football Integration Development Association (FIDA), is proud to announce a groundbreaking collaboration to develop a junior-to-youth Australian Rules football pathway for boys and girls aged 10–17 with an intellectual disability.
This initiative addresses a long-standing gap in the football landscape providing opportunities beyond mainstream competitions for young players with intellectual disabilities to participate, grow, and thrive in the sport they love.
In 2026, Leisure Networks will lead the delivery of specialised programs within Special Development Schools across Victoria. These programs will culminate in inter-school gala days, offering students the chance to compete, connect, and showcase their skills. These events will also provide valuable insights into participation trends and community interest.
Informed by these insights, AFL Barwon and FIDA will launch community-based inclusion competitions in 2027, ensuring they are built on genuine demand and supported by existing senior clubs. These existing senior clubs will receive education and resources to integrate junior inclusion competitions into their structures creating a seamless and supported pathway.
Together, these organisations are taking meaningful steps to create a clear and supported pathway from Auskick to inclusive junior and youth competitions ensuring that all young people, regardless of ability, have the chance to participate and belong in Australian football.
Leisure Networks CEO David Meade said:
‘Leisure Networks is proud to partner with AFL Victoria in leading this exciting initiative to grow junior pathways for boys and girls. We are committed to creating positive community impact through sport and developing pathways that help juniors and young people connect, grow, and thrive.’
This partnership will begin with FREE school activity in Term 1, 2026 at select Special Development Schools across Victoria.
More information will be available in 2026.
About FIDA and AFL Barwon All-Abilities
Football Integration Development Association (FIDA) has been at the forefront of creating an inclusive community where people with an intellectual disability can actively participate in Australian Rules football without barriers, with the FIDA competition in Victoria spanning more than three decades.
Across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria, more than 800 players are registered to the 30 FIDA clubs. FIDA is an open age competition for players aged 14 to 40 years old, with a significant gap for junior players to develop their skills and play against oppositions their own age.
AFL Barwon runs an All-Abilities Football Netball League to provide equal opportunities for individuals with varying abilities to take part in the game in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment.
The competition is also for players aged 14 to 40 years, with the existing five teams who are looking to build on their capabilities within the junior space to support this initiative.