Emirates launches ‘Force for Good’ community tennis program supporting youth across Australia

Emirates launched its Force for Good program in Australia in partnership with the Australian Tennis Foundation this year. The airline is investing $2.25 million over five years to help disadvantaged youth access tennis across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. The initiative offers structured environments where children can develop sporting skills and social connections.

In 2025 alone, the program expects to support about 3,000 children through 11 community initiatives involving more than 60 schools and clubs nationwide. Over 10,000 opportunities will be provided for kids to play tennis as part of these efforts.

So far this year, six community initiatives have started in cities including Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney with over 800 participants involved.

Dean Cleaver, Regional Sales Manager at Emirates said: "Emirates is passionate about ensuring our commitment to Australia extends beyond the flights we operate. For us, the Force for Good program is an opportunity to give back to the communities we serve in Australia.

"Backed by a legacy of strong sporting sponsorships including our longstanding partnership with Tennis Australia, we know that offering children access to tennis is about more than the game. For children who might otherwise miss out on the opportunity, we're not only introducing them to a sport, we're offering pathways to develop physical skills, build social connections, and enhance mental wellbeing. The enthusiasm and fun we saw from the students in Brisbane is exactly what this program is about.”

Executive Director, Australian Tennis Foundation Vicki Reid said: “We are excited to join forces with Emirates to support social impact initiatives across Australia. Through this collaboration, we can break down barriers and provide young people with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive,”

John Millman said: “Tennis has the power to bring people together and create lasting change. It’s incredible to see the joy and connection these kids experience when they’re given the chance to play.”

Chief Executive Officer of Youth of Tomorrow Umit Oraloglu added: “We’re proud to partner with Emirates, ATF and Tennis Queensland to deliver a fully funded program to schools that need it most, supporting both the physical and mental wellbeing of young people.”