RugbyWA is proud to announce a landmark partnership with Nurse Assist 24/7 as the first partner of its All Abilities program, delivering the TackleSmart Program – a national-first initiative supporting safer and more inclusive rugby participation in Western Australia.
The partnership positions Nurse Assist 24/7 as a leader in inclusive sport, aligning two organisations committed to building confidence, connection, and participation through community-led initiatives.
Nurse Assist 24/7 is a trusted, registered NDIS provider delivering personalised disability and nursing support across the southern Perth region. With a strong focus on dignity, independence, and participant-first care, the organisation supports individuals to live well and engage meaningfully within their communities.
RugbyWA’s All Abilities program delivers inclusive rugby through clubs and community programs, supporting 90 players across Southern Lions, Perth Bayswater, and Wanneroo Rugby Clubs, as well as 11 schools, with further expansion planned.
The partnership will see the launch of the Nurse Assist 24/7 TackleSmart Program. The program enables players to participate at a level suited to their individual needs through a simple colour-coded headgear system – black for full contact, yellow for bear-hug tackle, and red for non-contact. By matching players by contact level, the initiative promotes safety, confidence, and empowerment while removing barriers to participation in inclusive, player-centred rugby environments.
RugbyWA Chief Executive Officer Simon Taylor said: “This partnership represents an important step forward for inclusive rugby in Western Australia.
“Nurse Assist 24/7 shares our commitment to community led inclusion, and through the delivery of the Nurse Assist 24/7 TackleSmart Program, is helping us remove barriers and ensure rugby is a game where everyone can participate safely, confidently, and with a sense of belonging.”
Nurse Assist 24/7 Business Development Manager Ray-Charles Meyer said: “Partnering with RugbyWA on the All Abilities Program is something we’re incredibly proud of.
“It reflects rugby’s philosophy as a game for all shapes, sizes, and abilities, which strongly aligns with what we stand for.
“The TackleSmart Program is a powerful initiative that removes barriers and empowers people to participate in a way that suits them.
“It’s about giving people the confidence to get involved, feel included, and be part of something bigger.”
Through the partnership, Nurse Assist 24/7 will engage across RugbyWA programs and events, building authentic connections while making a tangible contribution to inclusive sport. As the Nurse Assist 24/7 TackleSmart Program rolls out, it will become a defining feature of All Abilities rugby in Western Australia and a model for inclusive sport nationally.
RugbyWA welcomes players, families, clubs, schools, and community organisations to register their interest or learn more about All Abilities rugby by contacting the All Abilities team or visiting the website.
