APPLY NOW for Raise the Bar

For the fourth consecutive year, Athletics Australia and the University of Melbourne will come together to host the Raise the Bar Academy (RTBA) in January 2018.

RTBA in 2018 is open to Indigenous students entering Years 10, 11 or 12, with the aim of supporting those who aspire to participate in athletics and study at university. The free program consists of a five-day summer residence camp at the University of Melbourne.

Participants will train with some of Australia’s best athletes, develop new skills coaching, connect directly with sports industry professionals and learn about how they can access the University of Melbourne’s education and Indigenous pathways.

Athletics Australia’s General Manager, Program Development, James Selby said that RTBA was aimed at inspiring Indigenous secondary school students to develop a lifelong association with athletics and to pursue educational pathways.

 â€œThe camp provides a fantastic opportunity for the students to get on the right track to start the school year, be inspired by peers just like themselves, meet new friends and learn from some of Australia’s best athletes who are excelling in all areas of their lives, not just the sports arena.”

“The Academy participants will have the chance to explore their leadership potential and discover how to pursue a university education at Australia’s leading academic and research institution.”

RTBA in 2018 will welcome up to 35 participants.

The purpose of RTBA is to encourage Indigenous secondary school students to elevate their athletic and academic aspirations; to understand that it is possible to pursue academic and sports goals concurrently; to educate Indigenous students that participation in sport can complement and to open doors to professional pathways.

In the past three years, RTBA has welcomed participants from remote communities such as: Arnhem Land, Alice Springs, Yam Island, Palm Island, Cooktown, Kununurra, Loom Community (WA), One Arm Point (WA), Halls Creek (WA), Ceduna and Port Augusta (SA) as well as many others.

RTBA participants will get a taste of life on campus and enjoy living alongside some of Australia’s most elite athletes for the week. 

Applications for consideration to attend RTBA are now open, with more information and links to apply available by clicking here.