Melbourne’s A-League rivals Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City have put competition aside to lead a major new anti-racism initiative aimed at promoting inclusion and respect across Victoria.
Backed by the Victorian Government, the Local Anti-Racism Initiatives (LARI) Program will engage more than 10,000 young people over the next four years through athlete-led workshops, football-based education sessions, community visits and school programs. The partnership will culminate in the inaugural Anti-Racism Symposium in 2026, bringing together players, educators and community leaders to share stories and strategies.
Developed initially by Reflect Forward in collaboration with Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), the initiative harnesses the unifying power of football to challenge racism both on and off the field.
To mark the launch, the captains of Victory and City will wear specially designed Reflect Forward armbands during this weekend’s Melbourne Derby – a powerful symbol of solidarity and the clubs’ shared commitment to inclusivity.
Earlier this week, the two clubs co-hosted a special screening of the ABC documentary series End Game at AAMI Park, which explores racism in Australian sport. The event was attended by government officials, media representatives and football stakeholders to celebrate the partnership’s official launch.
Reflect Forward’s Jamal Elsheikh said the collaboration represents the next step in a growing national movement.
“What started as a collaboration between Reflect Forward and PFA in 2021 is now growing – bringing clubs, athletes, and communities together to take real action against racism,” he said.
Melbourne Victory Managing Director, Caroline Carnegie, said the club is proud to lead by example.
“By working with Reflect Forward and Melbourne City, we believe we can help decrease the instances of racism in sport. “Collaborating on this project will create places in schools and football clubs that ensure all Victorians feel a greater sense of pride and belonging,” she stated.
Melbourne City’s Head of Community, Sunil Menon, added: “Melbourne City has always believed in the power of football to make a difference. Through our community programs, we’ve seen how the game can bring people together and build understanding across cultures.”
PFA Chief Executive, Beau Busch, said the program highlights players’ ongoing commitment to driving cultural change.
“Australian football is the beneficiary of our multicultural communities and diversity across our nation. With that comes the responsibility to proactively protect those who contribute so much,” he concluded.
