Our Cause

AFL Cape York House Foundation is a grassroots charity working to change education outcomes for young Indigenous Australians. Education is the key to building positive futures for Indigenous young people. It is linked to job prospects, future opportunities, and financial security as well as improved physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. However, the confronting reality is that less than 12% of people from remote communities in  Queensland's Far North report having completed high school, through no fault of their own.

 

Schools are often great distances away meaning most young people must leave their communities to finish school. Factors including homesickness and cultural and social disconnection create a significant mental and emotional health burden. As a result, many young people struggle to finish school.

 

More than ten years ago, the Australian Football League, through their game development program in Cape York and the Torres Strait, saw an opportunity to help. Partnering with Community and Elders, they worked to create an alternative boarding model that supported young people to complete their education. AFL Cape York House for Boys opened in Cairns in 2013 followed by AFL Cape York House for Girls in 2019. Their, now award-winning, Model of Care enables young people to complete their education in a safe, culturally appropriate, ‘home away from home’ environment.

 

Today, AFL Cape York House is home to 100 students from 45 communities and is the preferred boarding model for Indigenous young people. For good reason, too - more than 90% of year 12 graduates secure employment or a tertiary or vocational placement. In 2022, their year 12 graduate completion rate was 100%.