The NRL's Indigenous 'School to Work' program has received a significant boost, with the Coalition Government investing $6.3 million into the program through to 2020.
The investment will support up to 500 Indigenous students a year to complete their studies and move into further study or work.
The NRL's 'School to Work' program commenced in 2012 and utilises the positive profile of rugby league to support and encourage young Indigenous Australians to complete their schooling studies and move into further education or work.
The program has seen more than 750 students involved with the program, with 98 per cent of graduates successfully transitioning into further education or sustainable employment.
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg said that rugby league was proud to work in partnership with the Commonwealth Government and use the league’s voice and connection with Indigenous communities to deliver positive social change.
"The NRL has the power to deliver change and there is no better example than the School to Work program," Mr Greenberg said.
"We thank the Government and in particular, the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Senator Nigel Scullion, for the commitment and additional funding support that will see this program strengthen and grow from Queensland, right down the east coast to Victoria, including the Australian Capital Territory."
"The National Rugby League is a leader in supporting the aspirations of First Australians – on and off the footy field," Minister Scullion said.
"This investment supports the Coalition Government's efforts to Close the Gap in education and employment outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians and our commitment to creating more opportunities for hardworking Australians to find jobs."
The NRL was officially recognised on the world stage in 2016, winning an award at the Beyond Sport Awards in London for the game’s School to Work program.
There are currently 10 NRL clubs involved with the program.
