PORT ADELAIDE has launched a bold plan to establish a state-of-the-art Centre for Aboriginal Excellence and Leadership.



It comes on the back of a $4 million grant to start the project from the Australian Government as part of its 1967 Referendum 50th Anniversary Indigenous Education Package.



The grant funding to Power Community Ltd, the independent community development organisation of the Port Adelaide Football Club, will help build a revolutionary complex to provide:



 Short and long-term accommodation for Aboriginal students

 Arts and cultural spaces to teach and raise awareness of Aboriginal culture

 Dedicated education programs tailored to suit the learning needs of each student

 Health, wellness and recreation facilities for lifestyle programs and practical learning

 Café and kitchen for commercial training and patronage

 Office facilities for education partners to integrate and support the Centre’s deliverable outcomes.

Port Adelaide CEO Keith Thomas said the construction of a dedicated space for Aboriginal education programs is an objective of Port Adelaide’s most recent Reconciliation Action Plan.



“This is an exciting announcement that allows us to continue our vision to make our community proud through innovation and investment in Aboriginal leadership and learning," he said.



“Port Adelaide strives to provide young Aboriginal people with the skills and knowledge they need to make a successful transition from school life into further education and the workforce.



“It will provide Power Community Ltd a dedicated space to deliver our industry-leading Aboriginal programs in a state-of-the-art environment, and to help foster reconciliation through providing cultural awareness education in the wider community.



“It’s an exciting time for Port Adelaide, with our international aspirations matched by our vision to build strong and cohesive communities in our heartland.



“I thank the Australian Government for this tremendous vote of confidence in our plans and vision.



“We will continue to search for the additional funding required to support this important project.”



Commonwealth Minister for Indigenous Affairs Nigel Scullion echoed Thomas' comments.



“I am pleased to be partnering with Port Adelaide Football Club to provide $4 million to establish a facility that will deliver residential and education support for young Indigenous Australians," Minister Scullion said.



"I am backing in the Port Adelaide Football Club because of its strong track record and partnership with Aboriginal communities across South Australia.”



