Gold Coast SUNS and StreetSmarts Extend Partnership

The Gold Coast SUNS have announced a three-year extension of their partnership with StreetSmarts, the Queensland Government’s road safety initiative operating under the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).

This renewal solidifies StreetSmarts’ role as the primary partner for the SUNS Academy through to 2028, aligning with Queensland Road Safety Week and a shared commitment to fostering responsible driving behaviours.

Direct Funding for Grassroots Clubs

A significant new element of the extended partnership is the introduction of a AUD 10,000 grant program in 2026, enabling local AFL clubs to apply for funding for their own road safety projects.

This initiative directly supports grassroots football, providing financial resources and empowering community clubs to become local advocates for road safety. This cascade effect extends the partnership’s impact and strengthens the broader AFL ecosystem in Queensland.

Leveraging Sport as a Communication Platform

Highlighting the unique power of sports in conveying crucial messages, Transport Minister, Brent Mickelberg, said: “Sport has a unique ability to connect communities, making it an effective platform for sharing vital road safety messages, especially with at-risk road users.”

The partnership, which commenced in 2021, has seen the Gold Coast SUNS actively advocate for road safety messages.

StreetSmarts’ elevated role as the inaugural Naming Rights Partner for the SUNS Academy since 2023 indicates a deeper integration of the initiative within the club’s development pathways.

The prominence of the StreetSmarts logo on academy apparel and the inclusion of road safety education within the academy’s programming highlight a direct, ongoing engagement with young athletes.

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