Prime Minister Julia Gillard officially launched the Korin Gamadji Institute (KGI) today, in the ME Bank Centre at Punt Road Oval.

The KGI operates programs for Indigenous youth to develop their leadership, vocational skills and provide training, to create sustainable careers.

“The Korin Gamadji Institute is confirmation that the work of Reconciliation isn’t always about the big gestures. The transformative power of education should never be underestimated, and the Korin Gamadji Institute will be responsible for changing lives,” said Prime Minister Gillard.

Prime Minister Gillard thanked the Club and KGI Director, Belinda Duarte for the vision and perseverance to establish the KGI and open up new possibilities for Indigenous youth.

“It is not only a place for young people to develop valuable skills for the future, but a place that the broader Indigenous community will benefit from for many years to come,” Prime Minister Gillard said.

Belinda Duarte, Director of the KGI said it’s been positive to see how the centre has already connected and engaged members of the Indigenous community, both in Victoria and interstate.

Ms Duarte said the AFL can be a powerful and positive influence and she is proud that Richmond can assist the KGI to create meaningful pathways for young Indigenous people to develop their skills and carve out rewarding careers.

Richmond chief executive Brendon Gale thanked Prime Minister Gillard and the Federal Government for helping turn the vision of the KGI into a reality.

“A lot of people have worked extremely hard to bring the KGI to life and it has been wonderful to witness the number of young Indigenous people that utilise the facility since the doors were opened,” Gale said.

Mr Gale said launch is a significant step forward and the Club and KGI administration appreciates the Federal Government’s support and looks forward to working together to deliver great outcomes for the Indigenous community.