Co-designed with migrant community members as part of the South Australian Government’s Connected and Active Communities (CAC) program, the Bordertown Migrant Sport program is fostering social connection and increasing physical activity by making sport more accessible and inclusive.

Developed in partnership with the Tatiara District Council and the local soccer community, the initiative was initially established to support informal junior and senior soccer competitions.

The aim was to create a safe, sustainable and welcoming environment for all community members to participate in sport - particularly those from migrant backgrounds.

Since its launch, the program has grown significantly - from just 12 participants in the early weeks to now more than 80 people regularly taking part.

Participants from Indian, Filipino, Iraqi and Sudanese backgrounds have embraced the program, with local residents also joining in to create a diverse and connected sporting community.

In addition to soccer, the initiative has now expanded to include basketball, with informal games evolving into structured teams competing in the Bordertown Basketball Association.

Funding support from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing has played a crucial role in the program’s success, covering the cost of facilities, uniforms and equipment to eliminate financial barriers to participation.

The program also focuses on developing leadership within the community.

Through support from CAC Officer Tony Elletson and Tatiara District Council’s Tracey Grosser, local leaders have been equipped with skills in governance and safety, including completion of Child Safe Officer training.

“This program has seen fantastic results in increasing participation, providing a safe and inclusive environment for physical activity, and supporting new arrivals in the Bordertown area to become integrated in community life,” Mr Elletson said.

“The support from Council, the Basketball Association and the CAC program has seen the numbers grow enormously in a short space of time.

“With basketball being added to the mix, we can continue to grow the number of people being physically active in Bordertown.”

This investment in leadership has helped ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants, while giving the community a sense of ownership over the program.

With the current program continuing to thrive, plans are underway to further strengthen youth participation and deliver more localised activities, reducing the need for young people to travel long distances for opportunities.

There is also a vision to replicate the model across other regional communities, co-designing new programs with local migrant groups to support connection, inclusion and activity.

The Bordertown Migrant Sport program is a compelling example of how sport can unite communities, empower leaders, and make regional South Australia a more connected and active place to live.