How
We Work

Who We Are

ChildFund Rugby is a dedicated Sport for Development team, committed to harnessing the power of rugby to drive positive social impact.

Our goal is to empower youth, strengthen local systems, and help partners use sport as a force for good.

ChildFund Rugby is led by ChildFund Australia on behalf of the ChildFund Alliance – a global network of 11 organisations working with partners in more than 70 countries, impacting nearly 30 million children in vulnerable situations.

Partnerships as the driver of lasting impact

ChildFund Rugby collaborates with rugby partners globally to provide children and young people with opportunities to play, learn and lead.

Through integrated rugby and life skills learning, young people in vulnerable situations develop critical social and emotional skills, which help them achieve personal goals, build empathy, manage emotions, develop positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.

A COLLABORATION-FIRST APPROACH

Our approach is grounded in partnership. We collaborate deeply with rugby unions and communities, drawing on their strengths to ensure relevance and long-term success.

Our partnership model:

  • Champions partner-led collaboration — we back local expertise and leadership every step of the way
  • Elevates youth leadership — creating real opportunities for young people to lead, on and off the field
  • Delivers lasting impact — with results that are visible, measurable, and rooted in community change
  • Builds capacity — supporting partners to grow stronger, more sustainable systems over time
  • Connects local to global — linking grassroots insights to global platforms for broader influence

Core Learning Initiatives

Pass It Back

Using rugby and life skills to empower vulnerable youth with social-emotional tools, fostering positive change and resilience within their communities.
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Grassroots to Global

Connecting young rugby leaders to address participation barriers and boost inclusion, particularly for women, through forums and community-driven projects.

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Union Boost

Empowering rugby partners with tailored support in governance, inclusion, safeguarding, finance, fundraising, communications, engagement, and leadership development.
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