Ladder

“I’d been kicked out of school.
I was drifting and getting pulled into the wrong crowd.
The path I was on was self-destructive.
I didn’t see a way out.
Until someone stepped in.”

One trusted relationship can change everything.

At Ladder, we walk alongside young people through life’s toughest moments, helping them rebuild confidence, connection and pathways forward.

Learn how your support can help young people build confidence, connection and pathways forward.

Visit our website https://www.ladder.org.au/ for more info.

For too many young Australians, the pathway into homelessness and long-term disadvantage begins long before crisis becomes visible.

It starts with disconnection.
At school.
At home.
In the community.

Ladder exists to walk alongside young people at critical moments — helping them reconnect with education, employment, community and belief in their future.

Because when the right support shows up at the right time, trajectories change.

Learn more about how Ladder is helping young people reconnect with education, employment and community. Visit our website https://www.ladder.org.au/ for more info.

This National Volunteer Week, we are recognising and celebrating the incredible volunteers who continue to show up for young people across our communities.

From mentoring and community support to opening doors and creating opportunities, our volunteers play an important role in helping young people feel supported, connected and believed in.

Thank you for your time, compassion and commitment to helping young Australians build confidence, connection and pathways forward.

Together at Ladder, we are changing the game for young people.

From touring the St Kilda Football Club facilities and watching training, to meeting staff and players like Gippsland local Alix Tauru, our participants left feeling inspired, connected and confident about what’s possible for their future. A huge thank you to Browny and the St Kilda Football Club for an unforgettable experience. Learn more about the day at https://www.ladder.org.au/News/a-day-with-the-saints-inspiration-on-and-off-the-field

It’s not the moment, it’s the connection that changes everything. Ladder Alumni connected with Adelaide Crows Captain and Ladder Board Director, Jordan Dawson, who heard firsthand the lasting impact of Ladder. The young people were reminded that they matter, they’re not alone and their story isn’t finished. Learn more at https://www.ladder.org.au/News/more-than-a-conversation-how-jordan-dawson-is-showing-what-player-impact-really-looks-like

From Ladder and the young people we support, we want to wish all the AFL players the best for the upcoming 2026 AFL season. Created by AFL Players nearly 20 years ago, Ladder exists to support young people at critical times in their lives. As the official charity of the AFL Players, we want to thank all players for their continued support and the impact that they have on our young people.

We’re delighted to welcome Christopher Wilborn as Ladder Acting CEO while Stephanie De Campo begins her parental leave. Chris brings a wealth of experience and thoughtful leadership, and we’re excited to have him guiding the team during this time. Learn more at ladder.org.au

Ollie made the call to turn things around. After family challenges and time away from school, he joined the Ladder program with some clear goals. Since then, he’s completed a TAFE electrical course, secured a casual hospitality job and is now working towards an apprenticeship. Ollie’s story is proof that with the right support, determination can spark real change.

We hope your year has kicked off to a great start! Ladder offices have re-opened for 2026. We look forward to continuing to grow our impact with you this year and help change the lives of even more young people experiencing disadvantage.

Having people in your corner changes everything. Ladder has been a safe space for Jachery, a place for ongoing support, confidence building and meaningful opportunities. When you know you’re backed, the future already feels a lot brighter.