Ahead of the 2022 Australian Football League Women's (AFLW) season launch, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon Richard Marles MP has taken to the field to train with Australian Defence Force (ADF) members who are also AFLW players and coaches.
Wearing the colours of his favourite AFL team, the Geelong Football Club, the Deputy Prime Minister was put through his paces by ADF members from all three services.
"It is always a privilege to spend time with our ADF members," Deputy Prime Minister Marles said.
"As the Deputy Prime Minister and a keen AFL enthusiast, it is great to have the opportunity to show my support to those who are professional athletes and ADF members ahead of the 2022 AFLW season.
"People are Defence's most important capability and it is important for our serving members to have the opportunity to pursue their passions and bring life experience to their ADF roles.
"The Government is committed to growing the ADF workforce and must look at providing opportunities for all Australian citizens to defend their nation, including professional sportspeople.
"The ADF is a supportive employer that balances the work and personal interests of its members, building a robust workforce where members are encouraged to reach their full potential in all aspects of their careers.
"Whether our members participate in a sport at a grassroots or international level, I am proud our ADF can offer a range of opportunities for serving members. Sport plays a critical role in supporting the wellness approach for our members.
"Staying active, working in a team, and building leadership skills are part of what we see on the field during the AFL season and are key capabilities acquired in the ADF."
Defence is excited to support the ADF players and coaches as they embark on the AFLW 2022 season.
