The Associated Independent Colleges (AIC) is pleased to announce our inaugural major sponsor- Griffith University. This major sponsorship of the AIC Sporting Competition marks a significant step forward in strengthening sporting opportunities for students and member schools across the Association.
The collaboration brings together AIC’s long-standing commitment to holistic student development with Griffith University’s reputation as a leading institution in education, research, sport, and community engagement. Through this sponsorship, both organisations aim to enhance pathways for students, increase access to expertise, and foster meaningful initiatives that support learning, wellbeing, participation and performance.
Under the agreement, AIC and Griffith University will work collaboratively across a number of strategic focus areas, including:
• Opportunities for student engagement, leadership, and development for both AIC and Griffith University students.
• Expanded research partnership opportunities aligned with school and community needs
• Initiatives to support students and staff training and professional learning
• Expansion of livestreaming capabilities to include all three major AIC Championships
• Support to enhance access to university education through pathway opportunities
• Exploration of future projects relevant to sport, health, and youth development
Mr Ben Lowrie, 2026 AIC President outlined the wonderful benefits of this new partnership.
“The Associated Independent Colleges is pleased to commence this partnership with Griffith University. Our shared values of student-centred development will allow for a strong relationship between these two proud institutions and give opportunities for both students at AIC member colleges and Griffith University students” Mr Lowrie said.
Likewise, Griffith University were proud of the new agreement.
“At Griffith, we are committed to supporting the next generation of athletes and leaders. The AIC Sporting Competition provides an exceptional platform for young people to challenge themselves and discover their potential. We’re proud to partner with an organisation that shares our values and is committed to supporting the whole student- creating real pathways and diverse opportunities for their growth and success.” Phillip Stork, Vice President- Future students and Strategic Communications, Griffith University.
The inclusion of enhanced livestreaming is expected to significantly increase access to AIC’s flagship events, allowing families, alumni, and the broader community to engage with the Association’s major championships regardless of location. Likewise, the expansion of Griffith’s Brisbane City campus to include the new Treasury building location from 2027 will provide even greater opportunities for AIC students to pursue study at Griffith in Business, IT and Law.
Griffith University is an exclusive Australian Olympic Pathway University with a long-standing commitment to empowering athletes to build rewarding careers while achieving their sporting goals. Griffith Sports College plays a vital role in fostering students who are also elite athletes, helping them devote time to training and competition while they complete their tertiary studies.
The partnership reflects a shared belief in the power of education, collaboration, and purposeful engagement to improve outcomes for young people. Both organisations look forward to building a productive and ongoing relationship that provides meaningful benefits for students, staff, and the wider community.
The first major event on the 2026 AIC calendar will be the Ecumenical Service, proudly hosted by St Laurence’s College on Thursday 5 February, marking the beginning of the 2026 AIC Sporting Season and the first opportunity to acknowledge the partnership publicly within the community.
More details on collaborative initiatives and opportunities for students and schools will be shared over the coming months.
Photo (L to R)- William B (St Laurence’s student), Paul Begg (Villanova Principal; 2026 AIC Vice President), Phillip Stork (Griffith University- Vice President- Future Students and Strategic Communications), Naomi McCarthy (Director Griffith Sports College), Ben Lowrie (St Laurence’s Principal; 2026 AIC President), Oscar S (St Laurence’s student).
