A group of 25 young indigenous Canberrans are the first of many who will study important skills in a new leadership program that starts today.

The ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth Leadership Program provides free fortnightly leadership classes to Indigenous youth aged 18 to 30, free of charge, with the support of the Canberra Raiders and the ACT Government.

The fortnightly classes run until July and focus on skills like communication, strategy development and goal setting.

The ACT Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Mr Shane Rattenbury said there had been “strong demand” for the  leadership course.

“Leadership skills are essential to build the capabilities, networks and opportunities open to young indigenous people and the ACT Government is delighted to support this new program,” Mr Rattenbury said.

Canberra Raiders player and AILC staff member Joel Thompson said it was “fantastic” to be involved with a program that could help indigenous youth “realise their potential, and be the best that they can be”.

“Indigenous leadership is critically important if we are to close the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians and this program is a really important starting point,” said Thompson.