The Fremantle Dockers are proud to be working alongside the Western Australian Government on a new partnership designed to create meaningful connections between local communities, industry and future career pathways in WA.
Formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Defence West, the partnership brings together two organisations deeply embedded in Western Australia, Fremantle and the State’s defence sector, with a shared focus on service, opportunity and community engagement.
The agreement was signed ahead of Fremantle’s 2026 Len Hall Tribute Game, the Club’s annual Anzac Day fixture that honours Len Hall, Western Australia’s last surviving Gallipoli veteran.
The partnership aligns strongly with the Club’s long‑standing commitment to the WA community, from grassroots football and school programs across regional and metropolitan areas, to initiatives that support young people, veterans and workforce development beyond the field.
As Fremantle’s headquarters are located near Henderson and HMAS Stirling, it means they sit alongside Western Australia’s primary defence precinct, a hub that plays a critical role in Australia’s future shipbuilding, sustainment and submarine capability under the AUKUS partnership. The MoU acknowledges this shared geography and the opportunity it presents to connect local communities with the work happening in their own backyard.
Under the partnership, Fremantle and Defence West will explore a range of initiatives, including joint community events, leadership and training programs, opportunities for defence industry participation at Club activities, and collaborative projects that support veterans, young people and emerging career pathways.
By leveraging Fremantle’s strong connection with fans across WA, the partnership aims to raise awareness of the scale, capability and career opportunities within the State’s defence industry, particularly for those who may not otherwise see a pathway into the sector.
Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia said the collaboration reflects the strength of WA organisations working together for community benefit.
“This agreement brings together two great Western Australian strengths, our defence industry and our sporting culture, to create new opportunities for the community,” Minister Papalia said.
“The Fremantle Dockers have a remarkable ability to reach people right across the State, and this partnership will help us build awareness of the careers and capabilities that exist in Western Australia’s defence sector.”
For Fremantle, the partnership is another step in using the platform of football to spark conversation, open doors and contribute positively to life in Western Australia, reinforcing the Club’s role as more than just a team on the field, but a committed community organisation with strong local roots.
