RMIT extends partnership with the Essendon Football Club

RMIT extends partnership with the Essendon Football Club

RMIT has become an official partner of the Essendon Football Club’s women and wheelchair teams, reflecting the University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

As part of the three-year agreement, RMIT will be an Essendon AFLW Dreamtime Partner in 2026 and 2027, promoting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge, culture and voices in line with our Responsible Practice ideals.

RMIT’s College of Vocational Education Deputy Vice-Chancellor Mish Eastman said the extended partnership stems from RMIT’s belief in diversity and inclusion. 

"RMIT is ranked as the 5th best university in the world for reducing inequalities," Ms Eastman said. "We are very committed to making education accessible to people from all backgrounds. 

“We believe everyone deserves to feel welcome and valued - whether in sport, study or work." 

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Mish Eastman (centre) with AFLW Co-Captain Bonnie Toogood, VWFL coaches/players Chris Henderson and Gary Overliese, Essendon Football Club CEO Craig Vozzo, Essendon Education Academy Manager Kirsten Hannah and Essendon Education Academy students Jade Hallett and Anton Amalfi Deputy Vice-Chancellor Mish Eastman (centre) with AFLW Co-Captain Bonnie Toogood, VWFL coaches/players Chris Henderson and Gary Overliese, Essendon Football Club CEO Craig Vozzo, Essendon Education Academy Manager Kirsten Hannah and Essendon Education Academy students Jade Hallett and Anton Amalfi

The partnership between RMIT and the Bombers builds on a long-standing relationship established through the Essendon Education Academy. At the Academy, RMIT students are embedded in a high-performing sporting environment, developing their leadership and business skills.

Essendon CEO Craig Vozzo said the Club was thrilled to extend its partnership with RMIT.

“This partnership extension not only strengthens our AFLW and VWFL programs but also demonstrates a high level of commitment and value across our wider Club,” Mr Vozzo said. 

“As the Official Community Partner for AFLW Dreamtime in Darwin in 2026 and 2027, RMIT will now help support and grow community initiatives surrounding the Dreamtime match, which will help make a difference in the wider community.” 

29 July 2025

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29 July 2025

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