As the NRL’s Close the Gap round kicks off this weekend, ANTaR congratulates the code for walking the talk to achieve health equality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

“As an original member of the Close the Gap campaign, we commend the NRL for its strong commitment to achieving Indigenous health equality,” said Dr Janet Hunt, ANTaR President.

“Although Indigenous Australians make up less than 3% of the population, they make up more than 11% of current NRL players. This is testament to the enormous talent of Indigenous players as well as to the NRL’s efforts to support and encourage young Indigenous people into the game”, said Dr Hunt.

“The success of League’s top Indigenous players is an inspiration to young Indigenous people across the country.”

NRL players are also making concerted attempts to engage with young Indigenous people around the country through the Learn Earn Legend Program, which encourages young people to be healthy and get an education and increases the chance of employment in the future. These players are important role models and are to be congratulated.

“Progress towards the Close the Gap targets will take time, and it is vital that governments and the community support this agenda for the long-haul.”

“That’s why ANTaR has called on all major parties to commit to a comprehensive national plan to achieve health equality, based on close partnerships with the Indigenous health sector”, said Dr Hunt.

For more information on the NRL Close the Gap round or to watch the NRL Close the Gap video go to: http://www.oxfam.org.au/explore/indigenous-australia/close-the-gap/rugby-league-helps-close-the-gap

ANTaR is the pre-eminent non-Indigenous national advocacy organisation dedicated specifically to the rights - and overcoming the disadvantage - of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Media contacts:

Dr Janet Hunt – 0408 170 448
Mr Gary Highland – 0418 476 940