In a move that has left the AFL community and the broader public both stunned and inspired, Collingwood Football Club captain Darcy Moore has made an unprecedented personal donation of more than $12.7 million to combat youth homelessness across Australia.
The generous contribution, which is one of the largest ever made by an Australian sports figure, will go directly toward converting vacant and abandoned properties into fully functional, long-term shelters for homeless and at-risk youth. The initiative is being launched in collaboration with several major housing and social welfare organisations under a new program called “Home ground Hope.”
“It’s Time to Use Our Platform for Real Impact”
Speaking at a press conference this morning at Collingwood’s Holden Centre, Moore delivered an emotional statement about the inspiration behind his decision.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my life,” Moore said. “But I know that just a few different circumstances could’ve put me on a very different path. No young person should be sleeping on the streets or wondering where their next safe night is coming from. If we can transform even one empty home into a place of safety and belonging, we’re doing something right. This is about dignity, opportunity, and hope.”
Transforming Empty Houses into New Beginnings
The $12.7 million donation will initially be used to identify and refurbish over 150 vacant homes across Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia, converting them into transitional and long-term housing for youth aged 16 to 24. Each site will also include access to mental health support, job training, education assistance, and mentorship programs.
According to preliminary plans, the first homes are expected to open by mid-2026, with many of them located near public transport and community services. The program aims to provide housing for at least 2,000 young Australians within the next five years.
AFL Community Reacts: “Darcy Moore Just Changed the Game”
Reactions have been swift and overwhelmingly positive from across the AFL landscape.
Former Collingwood legend Nathan Buckley tweeted:
“Leadership is about more than what you do on the field. Darcy Moore just redefined what it means to wear the black and white. Immense respect.”
AFL CEO Laura Kane also issued a statement:
“This is a historic moment for sport in Australia. Darcy’s generosity and vision show how athletes can lead powerful change. We are beyond proud.”
Teammates, fans, and even rival players have echoed the sentiment, calling the move “transformational,” “humbling,” and “a turning point in the conversation around athlete activism in Australia.”
From Footy Hero to Humanitarian Leader
Darcy Moore, who took over the Collingwood captaincy in 2023 and led the club to its historic 2023 premiership, has long been known for his intelligence, compassion, and social consciousness. A university graduate and articulate speaker, Moore has frequently spoken out about mental health, education inequality, and community responsibility.
This latest move cements his legacy far beyond the field.
