Adelaide United and AMES Announce Partnership to Boost Community Engagement

Adelaide United has announced a new partnership with migrant and refugee settlement agency, AMES Australia, aimed at enhancing integration and support for newly arrived communities in South Australia.

The agreement will run through the 2025/26 A-League Men’s and Women’s seasons and focus on using football as a tool for social connection, youth engagement, and cultural inclusion.

Under the arrangement, the two organisations will deliver initiatives including multicultural matchdays during Harmony Week, pre-match citizenship ceremonies, junior development clinics, youth engagement events, and volunteer pathways. The program is designed to promote participation and cultural understanding while providing opportunities for community involvement.

Focus on Female Participation and Respect Initiatives

A central component of the partnership is the development of female-focused football programs. These will aim to foster leadership, confidence, and participation among girls and young women from diverse backgrounds.

The programs will also integrate AMES’ “Sport for Respect” initiative, which uses sport to address domestic and gender-based violence, promote respect, and highlight positive role models.

Commenting on the partnership, Adelaide United CEO, Nathan Kosmina, said: “Our purpose extends far beyond the pitch. This partnership with AMES is a natural extension of our values of inclusion, respect, and empowerment.” 

Broader Settlement and Engagement Outcomes

Emphasising the importance of football as a unifying force, noting the agreement’s potential to deliver access to sport, education, and employment opportunities for migrants and refugees, AMES CEO, Catherine Scarth, added: “Football is the world game, and it has the power to bring diverse communities and people together.”

Framing the initiative within the state’s broader strategy for inclusive sport, South Australian Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, Emily Bourke, noted: “This partnership sets out to provide opportunities for girls and women to achieve their goals on and off the pitch.”

Infrastructure and Resource Sharing

As part of the collaboration, Adelaide United will make its facilities available for AMES-led programs, including youth workshops, community meetings, and collaborative planning sessions.

This arrangement provides a professional and accessible environment for engagement activities and reinforces the club’s position as a community hub.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.