The Australian Government and the AFL today launched a unique sporting program to be held in the lead up to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

Minister for Defence and Member for Perth Stephen Smith and Minister for Sport Mark Arbib said under the CHOGM sporting program, 25 young players would take part in the AFL Multicultural All Star Camp.

Program participants will be drawn from Perth migrant communities who have taken to Australia’s homegrown game, including players who migrated from Commonwealth countries.

“Sport fosters a tolerance and understanding of different cultures. On the sporting field all that matters is the game. It has the power to cross cultural, religious and political divides.” Mr Smith said.

Senator Arbib said the team would draw on players from Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia, Botswana, Ghana, Cameroon, South Africa and the world’s newest country South Sudan.

“Sport is a massive part of the Australian way of life. It teaches young people self-discipline, team work and how to reach your goals,” Senator Arbib said.

“The Gillard Government is committed to ensuring that more young people have access to safe, fun and inclusive sporting opportunities like this program.”

Running from today until Monday October 24, the camp driven by the West Australian Football Commission will coincide with the CHOGM Commonwealth Youth Forum.

The four-day camp will see mentoring from Fremantle Dockers Assistant Coach Michael Prior, AFL Draft Combine skills testing, education sessions on nutrition and fitness, a cultural exchange program with Indigenous AFL ambassadors, a tour of the Fremantle Dockers Football Club and a coaching accreditation earned by each participant.