New Initiative to Tackle Violence and Promote Respect
SYDNEY — The Parramatta Eels and the New South Wales Government have announced a joint initiative aimed at fostering cultural change in junior rugby league. The collaboration, unveiled on March 30, will focus on preventing violence and promoting mental health across western Sydney. The NSW Government has committed $200,000 to support the Parra Play Cultural and Leadership programme, which will be implemented over two years.
The partnership includes educational initiatives targeting both junior league players and their coaches, with a focus on respectful behaviour and mental wellbeing. According to the Eels, the programme will feature annual workshops and elite pathway programmes for young players aged 14-19. The recent Culture and Wellbeing Summit brought together hundreds of participants to engage in discussions on these topics.
Commitment to Community Wellbeing
The programme is part of a broader NSW strategy to combat domestic, family, and sexual violence. Minister for Sport Steve Kamper stated that sporting organisations play a key role in influencing societal behaviour. Meanwhile, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison, emphasised the importance of local sports clubs in promoting healthy relationships and gender equality.
Parramatta Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos expressed the club’s dedication to leading by example in the community, highlighting the partnership’s role in creating inclusive environments. The initiative aligns with NSW’s strategy for preventing violence, which involves collaboration with various community sectors.
The initiative aims to establish a long-lasting cultural change by incorporating feedback from participants and continuously improving the programmes offered. With ongoing support from both government and community leaders, the Eels are committed to ensuring that the programme not only addresses current issues but also sets a precedent for future community-driven efforts. This partnership showcases how sports can be a powerful vehicle for positive change, inspiring other clubs and organisations to adopt similar approaches in their respective fields.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:37 pm
