Onside with the Mariners is a ground-breaking football program for secondary schools, aiming to boost participation, create social impact and empower Central Coast youth.

Beyond building football skills and increasing participation, the initiative addresses the issues of domestic violence and youth unemployment, fostering a thriving, inclusive community.

Committed to during the election, this funding will support the program to begin rolling out across the Central Coast in early 2025.

The program will operate in three stages:

1. Mariners A-League Football Skills Sessions: Initial A-League football skills sessions focusing on participation while initiating conversations around domestic violence (DV) and employment.

2. Tailored Domestic and Family Violence Education Program: Following the skills sessions, a bespoke domestic violence education curriculum will be delivered through in-school sessions, focusing on domestic violence, employment opportunities, and vocational training.

3. Follow-Up Sessions: To ensure the sustainability of the program's impact, follow-up sessions will be conducted to build on the initial discussions and education provided, offering interactive workshops and mentoring opportunities to reinforce the learning outcomes.

Nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 8 men in Australia have experienced violence by an intimate partner or family member since the age of 15.   In the Central Coast, there has been an 11.9% increase of reported domestic related assaults in the past five years.

The NSW Labor Government is taking urgent action to address the unacceptable rate of violence against women and children. This program supports that by taking a community lead approach to changing cultures and attitudes which can lead to domestic and family violence.

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic, family or sexual violence, please call the toll-free number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for support on 1800RESPECT or visit 1800respect.org.au.  

Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales said:

“As a Government we are committed to addressing the devastating impact of domestic and family violence across the state, but we know we can’t do it alone.

“Programs like this make a real difference in young people’s lives and on the community as a whole.

“I’m grateful to the Mariner’s for stepping up and taking on this leadership role for young people in the community, as we work to create a safer New South Wales.”

Steve Kamper, Minister for Sport said:

"Sport is not just about who can score the most goals, it’s about bringing the community together and instilling important values of respect in our young people.

“Our athletes are role models for many and it’s fantastic to see the Mariners using their platform to deliver such a vital program.”

Rose Jackson, Minister for Youth said:

“Central Coast youth are stepping up as leaders. This program will help them grow into the role models our community needs—on and off the field.

“We’re giving our young people the tools they need to build a safer, more inclusive community, starting right here with the 'Onside with the Mariners' program.”

David Harris, Minister for the Central Coast, said:

“The Minns Labor Government is addressing domestic violence on the Central Coast with this wonderful program to rally our young people around the Mariners to inspire a culture of respect and safe behaviour.

“The Mariners are a champion team on and off the pitch and will win the hearts and minds of the Coast’s youth to help turnaround the devastating impacts of domestic violence in our region.”

Jodie Harrison, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, said:

“Sports have incredible reach and influence in our communities, and the NSW Government is keen to tap into that with our work in preventing domestic and family violence.

“A program like ‘Onside with the Mariners’ goes to the heart of what we are doing – engaging with people where they live, learn, work, socialise and play.

“I look forward to seeing the results of this program and how it empowers young people to deal with domestic violence effectively.”

Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford, said:

“The Mariners are important role models across the Central Coast and this is another great step to use the positive power of sport to influence social change and create healthy communities.”

David Mehan, Member for the Entrance, said:

“The Mariners involvement in this program is another example of the team's commitment to our region and community.”

Matt Simon, Sporting Director, Central Coast Mariners, said:

“Onside With the Mariners is more than just a football clinic; it’s a commitment to our community. As a club, we’ve always believed in the power of football to bring about positive change. This initiative allows us to use football to address serious social issues and help shape a future where respect and equality are at the core of our relationships.”

Emily Husband, A-League Women’s Head Coach, Central Coast Mariners, said:

“Football has a unique ability to unite people and create a sense of belonging. Through Onside With the Mariners, we’re not just teaching skills on the pitch; we’re instilling values that extend far beyond it. By focusing on healthy relationships and respect, we’re empowering young people to make positive choices that will benefit them and our communities for years to come.”

Alyssar Narey, CEO, Central Coast Mariners, said:

“The launch of Onside With the Mariners marks a significant step forward in our efforts to make a lasting impact on the Central Coast as The Community Club. This program embodies our vision of using football as a tool for social good. By engaging with students and the wider community, we’re working to create a safer, healthier and more respectful environment for everyone.”