About Us
The Clontarf Foundation exists to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and by doing so equips them to participate more meaningfully in society.
Our Story
The Clontarf Foundation commenced in 2000 with a single academy located at the Clontarf Aboriginal College in Waterford, WA. The programme catered for 25 students and was operated by two staff members, including founder and current CEO Gerard Neesham. More than 20 years on, the Foundation operates 158 academies in WA, NT, QLD, NSW, VIC and SA, supports more than 11,400 participants and employs over 580 dedicated staff members.
Our People
The calibre of people that Clontarf employs is paramount to our success. They are hardworking, passionate and completely dedicated to helping the young men in our programme to achieve their full potential. Our academies are staffed with full-time mentors who possess a wealth of life experience and come from diverse backgrounds.
Our Alumni
Since 2000, Clontarf has helped more than 6,815 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men complete Year 12 and find employment. Many of them have gone on to have successful careers, purchase property, start their own young families and maintain healthy and fulfilling lives. They remain an important part of the Clontarf family and continue to provide support, guidance and inspiration to the current boys participating in the programme.
Our Locations
In 2024 there are 158 Academies within 168 schools across Western Australia, Northern Territory, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia.
