Aussie Rules: In line with the NAIDOC week festivities, the Darling Downs region has received a shot in the arm thanks to a ground-breaking announcement.

Earlier this week, a Reconciliation Action Plan was unveiled by the group, which is set to strengthen relationships between both AFL Queensland and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

AFL Darling Downs regional manager Jeff Neumann said the announcement had a number of positives for the local community.

"The Reconciliation Action Plan is a positive development for AFL Queensland as it outlines several important actions designed to raise awareness and build pride in the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” he said.

"Australian Football is the catalyst for healthy and vibrant communities, achieves community outcomes in a uniquely Australian way and is a way of life for all communities.

"Our vision for reconciliation is an inclusive AFL community, built on mutual respect, real opportunities and strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to drive positive, lasting change.”

A number of programs are available at the moment for Indigenous players, including the Jim Stynes Scholarship for players aged 15-19 years.

Mr Neumann said the decision to incorporate the RAP was designed to improve participation levels of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in all capacities of the games.

"The RAP has been developed to improve participation and increase the overall level of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who participate in our game as players, coaches and umpires,” he said.

"It aims to build partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders throughout Queensland and create employment opportunities to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees across AFL.”

Queensland and acknowledge and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture by continuing to build an understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customs, values and traditions through education and the AFL's ongoing focus on the Indigenous Round celebrations.

Whilst no details have been set in stone as of yet, Mr Neumann said there would be further work done in the local Warwick community between AFL Darling Downs and groups.

"We have many community partnerships in place and will be looking at ways to provide and implement programs across the Warwick and the Southern Downs,” he said.

The Reconciliation Action Plan can be viewed in full on the AFL Darling Downs website.