New statistics are highlighting the powerful impact the Indigenous health initiative Deadly Choices is having across communities, with research showing the program is driving more mob to take control of their health.
The figures reveal that 94 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people surveyed are more likely to get a regular health check because of the Deadly Choices program.
Deadly Choices officially kicked off its 2026 season, marking 16 years of empowering mob to prioritise their health through education, sport and strong community role models.
Former NRL great Petero Civoniceva said the involvement of elite athletes continues to play a critical role in inspiring communities.
“I think it’s the role that playing high-level sport, especially in the NRL, plays in inspiring community members,” he said.
“These men and women here today are all heroes in community.”
NRL star and Deadly Choices ambassador Olivia Kernick said being part of the program was about setting an example for the next generation.
“I think it’s really important for me to encourage the next generation and be a role model for them,” she said.
A major highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the 2026 Deadly Choices shirts, which will be worn by more than 15 sporting partners across the country.
Civoniceva said the designs go beyond aesthetics, carrying strong cultural storytelling.
“The designs are amazing and they tell a story,” he said.
“Supporters love their teams, but being able to wear a Deadly Choices shirt with strong Indigenous design in their team colours makes it even more special.”
The jerseys are designed to encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to complete a 715 Health Check at their local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service.
Kernick said her club’s design honoured the women who paved the way before her.
“We were able to incorporate all the strong Black women who have played for our club, with their totems featured in the design,” she said.
NRL First Nations stars David Fifita, Olivia Kernick and Jada Taylor were on hand to showcase this year’s shirts and reinforce the program’s core message.
Fifita said the movement continues to grow because of the people behind it.
“With Petro, Princey and the people behind the scenes, and mob from different clubs doing so well, we just keep building and trying to create a positive movement for our community,” he said.
For Sharks fullback and health worker, Jada Taylor, the message is simple but vital.
“It’s important that the messaging gets everywhere,” she said.
“I hope anyone who sees Deadly Choices branding looks into it, because it’s about encouraging mob to be healthy and make positive life choices.”
In 2026, Deadly Choices is expanding into New South Wales, the ACT, Victoria and Tasmania meaning more mob across the country will have access to the program and its life-saving message.
