The AFL and Australia Post have announced this year’s Multicultural Program expanding to 18 player ambassadors, who make up 15 per cent of the AFL player lists across the 18 AFL clubs.

Simon Lethlean, AFL general manager game and market development, said this season’s ambassadors were chosen to reflect the diverse cultures continuing to emerge in Australian society and the AFL’s commitment to growing the game in all communities.

“Expanding our multicultural player ambassadors to include two female footballers allows Australian Football to continue its commitment in reflecting Australian society and ensuring it’s an inclusive environment for all to enjoy our game, whether that’s as a fan, player or official,” Mr Lethlean stressed.

“We’re excited to add two female players to the list of multicultural ambassadors this year, whose talents were showcased in the female exhibition matches of 2015 and who are fast becoming well-respected role models within their respective communities.

“The expanded list of 18 ambassadors, representing 13 AFL clubs and two female clubs, will play a crucial role in raising cultural understanding, inclusion and participation at all levels of Australian football,” he added.

Meanwhile, the program will include two female players for the first time in its history, who will be promoting some of the many diverse backgrounds in Australia’s game.

Sabrina Frederick-Traub and Darcy Vescio will be joined by Brisbane Lions vice captain Dayne Zorko, Geelong’s Tom Hawkins, Fremantle’s Tendai Mzundu, Gold Coast Suns players Adam Saad and Tom Nicholls, Sydney Swan Aliir Aliir and Western Bulldogs player Jason Johannisen.

The new additions in 2016 join existing Australia Post AFL Multicultural Player Ambassadors David Zaharakis (Essendon), Jimmy Toumpas (Port Adelaide), Stephen Coniglio (GWS Giants), Paul Puopolo (Hawthorn), Shem Tatupu (Hawthorn), Alipate Carlile (Port Adelaide), Bachar Houli (Richmond), Nic Naitanui (West Coast) and Lin Jong (Western Bulldogs).

Essendon player David Zaharakis will continue working on AFL Victoria’s talent programs, mentoring young multicultural footballers and will attend key multicultural events.

Port Adelaide’s Jimmy Toumpas, on the other hand, will facilitate cultural education sessions with community leagues and community football clubs, as well as assist with multicultural talent programs in South Australia.

All ambassadors will begin their duties during the Australia Post AFL Community Camps next month, where they will meet fans during school visits, community receptions and super clinics in both regional and metropolitan centres.

The AFL Multicultural Round is to be held this year in Round 16 of the Toyota AFL Premiership Season, supported by Australia Post.

“Australia Post directly employs 37,000 people from 137 nations and almost a quarter of our employees are from non-English speaking backgrounds,” said Ahmed Fahour, Australia Post managing director and CEO.

“We recognise how migration has enriched Australian neighbourhoods and we’re proud of our connection with the AFL, which represents a sport that unites so many cultures under the one banner.

“This year, we are thrilled to be partnering with some of the biggest names in the AFL to spread the word message on inclusion, acceptance and diversity within the Australian community,” he said.