International students in Victoria are being encouraged to connect with local communities through Australian Rules football, as part of a broader effort to support wellbeing and social inclusion.
The initiative, launched under the Study Melbourne Inclusion Program, brings together the Victorian Government, the AFL, North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs to introduce students to the game in a structured and welcoming setting. Up to 200 students are expected to take part, learning the basics of AFL while also attending live matches.
The program sits within a wider funding round that will see 14 organisations share grants of up to $30,000 each. These projects cover a mix of practical and social support, including driver education sessions, food workshops, professional development opportunities and an art showcase. The aim is to help students adjust to life in a new country while building networks beyond their studies.
Government figures show the Study Melbourne Inclusion Program has supported 178 projects since it began in 2015, reaching more than 238,000 international students. Continued funding has been allocated in the 2025 to 2026 state budget, with $18.6 million set aside for international education programs and services.
Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson said the projects are designed to help students feel supported during their time in Victoria. He pointed to the variety of initiatives as a way to meet different needs, from practical skills to social engagement.
From the AFL’s perspective, the program is seen as an opportunity to introduce international students to a central part of local culture. AFL Executive General Manager Game Development Rob Auld said the sport can play a role in helping people feel part of the community, particularly when they are new to the state.
The involvement of clubs such as North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs reflects a broader effort to connect elite sport with community programs. Participants will have the chance to engage directly with the game, rather than simply watching from the sidelines.
Victoria continues to position itself as a leading destination for international students, supported by its universities, training institutions and cultural offerings. Melbourne was again named Australia’s best student city in 2025 by global rankings group Quacquarelli Symonds, placing fifth worldwide.
The economic contribution of international education remains substantial, with the sector generating close to $16 billion in export revenue in 2024 and supporting around 64,000 jobs across the state. While programs like this AFL initiative focus on wellbeing and inclusion, they also sit alongside a broader strategy to maintain Victoria’s appeal in a competitive global market.
For students arriving far from home, the chance to build connections outside the classroom can shape their experience in lasting ways. Whether through sport, creative projects or practical workshops, the goal is to make those first months in a new environment feel less uncertain and more connected.
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