A new seven-week soccer program at East Cannington Reserve is giving newly arrived and migrant families a safe and welcoming way to connect with their community.
The program is being delivered and managed by Football Futures Foundation, with support from Football Australia and Communicare.
Football Futures Foundation Programs Manager Mick Owens said the initiative is specifically designed for newly arrived and migrant families, including refugees and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
“Yes. The program delivered by Football Futures Foundation is designed primarily for newly arrived and migrant families, including refugees and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are still settling into their communities,” he said.
“Football Futures Foundation works closely with local support organisations to ensure families who may not yet feel confident joining mainstream sporting clubs have a safe and welcoming first experience in organised sport.”
Mr Owens said East Cannington Reserve was chosen because of its strong multicultural community and the number of families who have recently arrived in Australia.
“Delivering the program locally removes transport and access barriers and allows Football Futures Foundation to bring football directly into the community, making participation easier for families,” he said.
He said many families face challenges when trying to access organised sport.
“Football Futures Foundation regularly sees families facing barriers such as cost, transport challenges, language barriers, unfamiliarity with Australian sporting systems, and a lack of confidence in registering with local clubs,” he said.
“Some families are also managing settlement pressures such as housing, employment, and schooling needs, meaning sport is not always seen as accessible or a priority.”
The foundation hopes to engage around 40 to 60 children across the two age groups during the program, with the goal of creating a pathway into local community clubs after it ends.
“Football Futures Foundation hopes the program will help young participants build friendships, confidence, physical skills, and a sense of belonging in their new community,” Mr Owens said.
“Beyond football skills, the program aims to help children feel connected, active, and supported as they settle into life in Australia, while also helping parents understand how community sport can support their children’s wellbeing.”
If community response remains strong, the foundation plans to continue or expand the program beyond April and aims to run it throughout 2026.
The MiniRoos Multicultural Settlement Program runs every Saturday from 4.30pm to 5.30pm from February 21 to April 4. It is free to attend but registration is required. Two age groups are available for young people aged 5 to 12 and 13 to 20.
Mr Owens added that the organisation would also be keen to explore similar programs in other neighbourhoods to support more families through sport.
