Johnathan Thurston Academy lands deal to create jobs in remote communities

Johnathan Thurston’s academy has struck a landmark deal to train and employ locals in remote communities, creating pathways into skilled jobs where opportunities are scarce.

What happened with the Johnathan Thurston Academy?

The Johnathan Thurston Academy confirmed a new partnership on 15 July 2026 that will fund training programs and job placements across remote Indigenous communities in Queensland and the Northern Territory. The academy, founded by the rugby league legend, will collaborate with the federal government and two major employers to deliver accredited courses in construction, healthcare and digital skills. The initiative targets 200 participants in its first intake, with a goal of 1,000 placements over three years.

Why this matters for Johnathan Thurston

For Johnathan Thurston, the deal extends his off-field legacy beyond the field. The academy’s focus on remote training aligns with his long-standing advocacy for Indigenous education and employment. Thurston, a two-time premiership winner with the North Queensland Cowboys, has repeatedly used his platform to push for practical solutions to regional disadvantage. The new program mirrors his approach: short courses, paid work experience and guaranteed interviews with hiring partners.

Who’s involved and where?

The federal government’s Indigenous Skills and Employment program is co-funding the project with a $2.4 million grant. Two employers-Queensland-based construction firm Hutchinsons Builders and NT health provider Sunrise Health-have signed on as hiring partners. The academy will run cohorts in Cairns, Mount Isa and Alice Springs, starting in August 2026. Local mayors and Indigenous elders have welcomed the initiative, citing chronic underemployment in their regions.

What comes next for the academy?

The academy will open applications on 1 August 2026, with the first training block kicking off in September. Thurston’s team will host community forums in each location to explain eligibility and benefits. If the pilot hits its targets, the partners plan to expand into Western Australia and South Australia by 2028. The long-term aim is to replicate the model in other sports-led community programs nationwide.