Swinburne extends research and education partnership with Yarra Junior Football League

Swinburne University of Technology is extending their connection with the local community, furthering their partnership with the Yarra Junior Football League (YJFL).

As part of the new signed agreement, Swinburne and YJFL will collaborate on key research projects, with Swinburne supporting the YJFL in the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan and Gender Equity Inclusion plan.

The deeper partnership will also establish Swinburne as their naming right partner from 2024, meaning Swinburne’s logo will feature on every jumper.

Since establishing the partnership in 2023, Swinburne students have already undertaken health and media placements, and the university has become the official sponsor of the new YJFL Podcast.

The university is also already assisting the dedicated junior football league with concussion research, personal development and mental health support.

Executive sponsor of the partnership and Swinburne School of Health Sciences Dean Distinguished Professor James Ogloff is excited by what Swinburne and the YJFL can achieve off-field together for the community.

"Swinburne is very excited to partner with the Yarra Junior Football League. We both have shared values and the partnership is a perfect fit for us.”

“There is strong interest across the university, in both vocational and higher education, to work with the YJFL moving forward. We look forward to working with the YJFL to offer a diverse range of courses, co-designing research projects and professional development opportunities for their community of coaches, parents and players.”

YJFL chief executive Aaron Bailey says he is thrilled to have Swinburne join as a major partner.

“This is a landmark partnership for the YJFL, which will provide significant benefits to our community and participants. It is the most significant partnership in the history of the Yarra Junior Football league.”

“Swinburne's vision to make a real difference to the communities they serve aligns with the YJFL’s philosophy of creating the best possible environment for its participants.”