AFL Cape York House Foundation is committed to understanding and eliminating the barriers to education Indigenous young people face. Through our work we aim to shine a light on solutions that improve life outcomes for Indigenous Australians.
Education is often credited as the single greatest agent of change known to man. The ripple effect of education is seen in its immeasurable power to transform lives, not only for the individual, but for their families, their communities and society as a whole – across generations. From obstacle to opportunity, from distress to wellbeing, from struggle to prosperity.
AFL Cape York House Foundation is committed to understanding and eliminating the barriers to education Indigenous young people face. Through our work we aim to shine a light on solutions that improve life outcomes for Indigenous Australians.
Education is often credited as the single greatest agent of change known to man. The ripple effect of education is seen in its immeasurable power to transform lives, not only for the individual, but for their families, their communities and society as a whole – across generations. From obstacle to opportunity, from distress to wellbeing, from struggle to prosperity.
Research shows young people who complete Year 12 experience better life outcomes in general. This includes better health, higher rates of employment with less dependence on welfare, greater earning capacity and more career opportunities. Mental, social and emotional wellbeing is also improved. Year 12 graduates have better self-esteem and are more resilient being better equipped to handle everyday challenges and contribute to their communities. The chances of a young person displaying anti-social behaviours or entering the justice system also dramatically reduced with education.
The impact of AFL Cape York House Foundation’s work also contributes towards broader social, economic, cultural and environmental outcomes. Through our programs, we empower our young people with the tools to build positive futures and contribute to a vibrant and culturally strong Indigenous community. Our programs bring Elders and young people together for the passing down of customs including cultural arts and crafting, dance and performance, and caring for country through traditional land and environmental management practices. This recording and sharing of traditional knowledge helps preserve the rich cultural heritage of Cape York and Torres Strait Islands and protects our environment for future generations of Australians. A strong connection to culture improves our young people’s social and emotional wellbeing, improving engagement with education and overall life outcomes. In this way, we are preserving the past and protecting the future by empowering young people today.
The impact of AFL Cape York House Foundation’s work also contributes towards broader social, economic, cultural and environmental outcomes. Through our programs, we empower our young people with the tools to build positive futures and contribute to a vibrant and culturally strong Indigenous community. Our programs bring Elders and young people together for the passing down of customs including cultural arts and crafting, dance and performance, and caring for country through traditional land and environmental management practices. This recording and sharing of traditional knowledge helps preserve the rich cultural heritage of Cape York and Torres Strait Islands and protects our environment for future generations of Australians. A strong connection to culture improves our young people’s social and emotional wellbeing, improving engagement with education and overall life outcomes. In this way, we are preserving the past and protecting the future by empowering young people today.
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We care for 100 young people from 45 communities in our Cairns and Redlynch boarding houses.
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In 2022, AFL Cape York House achieved a year 12 graduate completion rate of 100% compared to the national completion rate of 38% in very remote communities.
90%
Go on to secure a University, vocational, or work placement upon completion of year 12, far exceeding the national average.
