Breaking cycles through running

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples represent 3.8% of Australia’s population but 36% of the adult prison population and 40% of youth in detention. The IMF Warrior Project uses running to help break cycles of offending and reoffending.

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The IMF Warrior Project establishes regular training sessions, running events and an education program within prisons and detention centres to inspire a lifelong commitment to health and wellbeing while building self-discipline, social connection, career pathways, and pride.

IMF Warrior Project participants continue to be supported post-release, with structured pathways in place to encourage connection and integration into a running community, with the aim of competing in a marathon within 12 months.

The IMF Warrior Project is breaking the offending and reoffending cycle by offering a culturally safe, holistic, and supportive pathway to rehabilitation, personal growth, and a future filled with purpose, while developing strong leaders to make a significant positive contribution to society.

FAQS

At the heart of the IMF Warrior Project is a commitment to authenticity, cultural safety, and lived experience. That’s why we co-design every element of the program alongside our Indigenous Marathon Project (IMP) graduates and IMF RAW Run Leaders, especially those who have had firsthand experience in the justice space.

These individuals are not only role models within their communities — they’re living proof of what’s possible. Their insights shape everything from training structures to cultural engagement strategies, ensuring the program is grounded in real-world experience and community wisdom.

Our focus on co-design strengthens the program’s relevance, impact, and sustainability, and ensures every Warrior feels seen, supported, and inspired by those who’ve walked — and run — the path before them.

GET IN TOUCH

From addiction and incarceration to marathons and mentorship in the IMF community, their journeys prove that transformation is possible.
That the finish line isn’t the end — it’s the beginning.

The IMF Warrior Project establishes regular training sessions, running events and an education program within prisons and detention centres to inspire a lifelong commitment to health and wellbeing while building self-discipline, social connection, career pathways, and pride.

The IMF Warrior Project uses running to help break cycles of offending and reoffending.

Running is accessible. Running builds physical health, mental strength, discipline, and self-belief. Running is good for one’s heart, health, and head! Through the IMF Warrior Project, participants set goals, develop routine, and experience achievement. Combined with strong role models and community connection, running becomes a powerful tool for breaking cycles and creating new opportunities.

The IMF Warrior Project is delivered by trained IMF staff, mentors, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, including IMP graduates and IMF RAW Run Leaders, who operate under the IMF National Child Safety and Vulnerable Persons Policy.

The IMF Warrior Project aims to improve physical and mental health, strengthen community connection, reduce reoffending, and support participants to build positive habits and leadership skills. IMF views impact as a ripple effect — change that starts with one person and extends to families, communities, and the next generations.

Contact us and an IMF team member will provide you with more information relevant to your interest in the IMF Warrior Project.

Learn more about the impact of our programs.

Read the 2024-25 IMF IMPACT Report