BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood Rising star Bobby Hill invest $6.9 million to transform houses into shelter for homeless youth in….

In a groundbreaking and heartwarming move, Collingwood Football Club’s rising star Bobby Hill has stunned the AFL world — not with a screamer or a match-winning goal — but with a generous act of compassion and leadership off the field. Hill has officially announced a $6.9 million personal investment to purchase and renovate a series of residential buildings in regional and inner-city Victoria, transforming them into safe shelters for homeless youth.

The initiative, titled “Hope House Project,” is a first-of-its-kind athlete-led housing program in Australia, and one that has already gained widespread admiration across the country. In a powerful press conference held outside the first redevelopment site in Footscray, Hill, 24, addressed the media alongside his mother, AFL representatives, and several youth advocates.

“This is bigger than football,” Hill said. “I’ve seen what homelessness does to young people — especially Indigenous youth — and I just couldn’t ignore it anymore. If I’ve been blessed with a platform and resources, it’s only right I use them to make change.”

A Rising Star’s Purpose Beyond Football

Bobby Hill has rapidly become one of the most electrifying players in the AFL. Since his transfer to Collingwood from Greater Western Sydney (GWS) in 2022, he has dazzled fans with his speed, creativity, and ability to light up the MCG on the biggest stages.

In 2023, he etched his name into club history by winning the Norm Smith Medal in Collingwood’s Grand Final victory over Brisbane — a performance that instantly turned him into a household name. But beyond his on-field prowess, Hill has consistently shown depth of character and heart that few could have predicted at such a young age.

Now, with this multi-million-dollar investment, Hill has demonstrated that his ambitions reach far beyond premiership medals.

Inside the Hope House Project

The Hope House Project aims to convert up to eight properties across Victoria into fully functional, safe, and supportive transitional housing for young people aged 12 to 24 who are experiencing homelessness, trauma, or family disconnection.

Each facility will be equipped with:

• Private and shared bedrooms
• On-site counselors and social workers
• Life skills education programs
• Job training workshops
• Community gardens and wellness spaces

The first property — a formerly abandoned boarding house in Footscray — is already under renovation and expected to open its doors by October 2025.

Hill confirmed that his initial $6.9 million investment covers acquisition, renovation, staffing, and operations for the first two years. He is also partnering with state authorities, the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, and nonprofit organizations like Youth Futures Victoria to ensure long-term sustainability.

What Inspired the Move

Hill was candid about what motivated the investment. During his speech, he recalled a 2019 visit to a youth shelter in Perth during his time at GWS.

“There was this one kid, maybe 14 years old. He asked me if I thought he’d be alive by the time he turned 18. That question never left me,” Hill said. “When I made it to the AFL, I promised myself that if I ever had the means, I’d build a place for that kid — and thousands like him — to believe in life again.”

Hill also drew on his Noongar heritage, expressing a desire to help not only all disadvantaged youth, but specifically address the disproportionate rates of homelessness among Indigenous Australians.

Widespread Praise from AFL and Beyond

The announcement has drawn widespread praise from across the football community and broader Australian society.

• Craig McRae, Collingwood head coach:

“This kid… he’s something else. Bobby has a heart as big as the G. We’re proud of what he does on the field, but we’re even more proud of what he’s building off it.”

• Eddie Betts, former AFL star and Indigenous advocate:

“Bobby’s showing what real leadership looks like. Investing back into community, breaking cycles, creating opportunity — that’s powerful.”

• Daniel Andrews, former Premier of Victoria, posted on X:

“Incredible leadership from a young Victorian. Bobby Hill’s Hope House Project is exactly what this state — and this country — needs.”

• Youth Futures Victoria issued a formal statement:

“Bobby Hill has given homeless youth something they rarely receive — visibility, dignity, and hope. His work will change lives.”

Collingwood Football Club’s Support

The Collingwood Football Club, known for its extensive community outreach, has formally pledged to support the Hope House Project through fundraising events, awareness campaigns, and staff volunteers. CEO Mark Anderson confirmed that the club will launch a “Round of Hope” later this season, where proceeds from ticket sales, merchandise, and matchday auctions will go directly toward sustaining the initiative.

The club also unveiled plans to design a limited-edition guernsey, featuring artwork by an Indigenous youth artist, to commemorate Hill’s contribution. The jumper will be worn in a special match in August.

AFL Players Association Statement

The AFLPA commended Hill’s efforts, calling it a benchmark moment for player activism:

“Bobby Hill’s $6.9 million investment in youth housing marks a pivotal moment in athlete-led social change in Australia. We hope his courage inspires others in the league and beyond.”

A Growing Movement?

Following Hill’s announcement, insiders have suggested that other AFL stars are now considering similar philanthropic moves. Teammate Nick Daicos and Melbourne’s Christian Petracca are reportedly in talks to support youth mental health programs, and a coalition of AFLW players is organizing a national clothing drive for women in shelters.

“This could be the start of something bigger,” said AFL commentator Gerard Whateley. “We may be witnessing a cultural shift — where athletes step up not just as entertainers, but as architects of a better future.”

What Comes Next for Bobby Hill

Despite the emotional weight of the announcement, Hill made it clear he has no intention of slowing down his AFL career.

“I’m still hungry, I’m still improving, and I still want more premierships,” he said with a smile. “But I also want to be remembered for more than goals. I want to be remembered for giving people a place to belong.”

Hill also hinted at plans to expand the Hope House Project to Western Australia — his home state — and said he’s open to working with other athletes, government bodies, and philanthropists to grow the movement.