The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are delighted to announce a meaningful match day partnership with Supporting Disabilities Australia (SDA) for our Round 18 clash against the New Zealand Warriors, a Round dedicated to diversity and inclusion.
1 in 6 Australians have a disability and Supporting Disabilities Australia has partnered with the Bulldogs to highlight the significant number of Australians who encounter physical, mental, sensory, or cognitive impairments that impact their daily lives. Through the upcoming match day, the two organisations aim to champion inclusivity, awareness, and acceptance.
Supporting Disabilities Australia specialises in providing comprehensive support services designed to enhance the quality of life and well-being of individuals and families living with disabilities and their support ranges from providing accommodation to in-home support and disability assistance. Its unwavering commitment to making a positive impact aligns seamlessly with the Bulldogs' core values as an inclusive, community-driven Club with strong family principles.
Bulldogs join forces with SDA to promote diversity and inclusion
The Bulldogs were privy to an exclusive look at the incredible work that SDA does for individuals and families requiring support this week, whilst touring and celebrating their latest site opening in Sefton, NSW. The new site provides supported independent living that offers premium access to disabled support services within the local community.
Bulldogs alumni Terry Lamb and Josh Reynolds were joined by current players, Josh Addo-Carr, Viliame Kikau, Karl Oloapu, and Bulldogs staff including CEO Aaron Warburton at the site, where they were greeted by SDA participants, carers, and staff.
"At the Bulldogs, we believe in the power of community and the strength that comes from supporting one another,” said Bulldogs CEO, Aaron Warburton.
“In visiting the site, we spoke to a number of individuals about some of the challenges they face daily and how SDA’s support, and services enable them to flourish. We are proud to join forces with the Supporting Disabilities Australia team for this special match to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals living with disabilities. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all."
The match day partnership aims to raise awareness and work towards creating a more accessible and supportive environment on and off the footy field. Both organisations are excited about the potential to make a lasting difference in the lives of those they serve with SDA striving to work creatively and consistently with each client, stating their clients are not just a 1 in 6 statistic but rather unique individuals with unique circumstances.
“The Bulldogs and Supporting Disabilities Australia will work together to empower communities on and off the field, supporting all-abilities athletes and patrons while raising awareness for the disability sector,” said Mya Anne, Co-Director at Supporting Disabilities Australia.
“We are so proud to partner together to showcase the power of sport in breaking down barriers regarding disability in our community and championing the work we do in creating safe, inclusive, and cohesive home environments for those living with disability, especially within the Canterbury Bankstown area.”
Warburton added, “This is truly a game for everyone, and we couldn’t be prouder to be uniting people within our community and working towards providing more inclusivity and opportunities for our valued community members.”
The inclusive Round will be celebrated during the Bulldogs’ home game at Accor Stadium on Saturday the 6th of July.
To find out more about the significant work SDA undertakes, visit: https://www.sdaus.net.au/
