EsportsAble: An exciting new initiative

EsportsAble aims to make esports safer and more welcoming, especially for young people living in remote and rural areas. These kids often face challenges like feeling lonely, struggling with mental health, or not having many chances to join organised activities. Without good options, they might have a hard time making friends or learning important life skills. EsportsAble wants to change that by creating safe and supportive gaming events where young people can build skills, make friends, and feel confident through positive gaming experiences.

Co-designed with local teens and support organisations in each community, EsportsAble makes it easier for kids to turn their love of gaming into real-life skills. Players learn how to work as a team, think strategically, and stay resilient when things get tough. Plus, the project helps keep kids safe online by teaching them how to avoid cyberbullying and respond to bad behaviour. Coaches and mentors are there to guide them every step of the way.

EsportsAble is important because it gives young people a place to feel included and valued. It builds positive online communities and encourages responsible gaming. Kids learn how to communicate better, solve problems, and connect with others in a positive way. In the end, EsportsAble is all about helping young people thrive both online and in real life.

Why QUT is best positioned to deliver EsportsAble?

QUT (Queensland University of Technology) is the perfect choice to lead EsportsAble because it has been involved in esports for a long time. For nearly a decade, QUT has run high school esports events in Brisbane, building strong connections with local schools and inspiring many young gamers. The university is known as one of Australia’s leaders in esports development, offering training and building communities that help young people grow.

QUT doesn’t just focus on competitions. It also runs one of the most successful esports development and support programs in Australia, helping students build not only gaming skills but also character, leadership, and social abilities. The university knows how to set up and manage esports events while making sure they’re safe and supportive for everyone.

QUT’s approach goes beyond just playing games. It also focuses on teaching kids important life skills, looking after their well-being, and helping them get ready for future jobs and social situations. That’s why QUT is best positioned to lead the EsportsAble project. It combines knowledge of running events with a strong understanding of how to support young gamers emotionally and socially.

Proven commitment to safety and inclusion in esports

QUT’s long history of successful esports programs and strong community ties make it the best choice to deliver EsportsAble. By working together with partners such as the Department of Social Services, Queensland Government, Headspace, and Queenslanders with Disability Network, QUT aims to make esports fun, safe, and open to all young people in Queensland. With QUT leading the way, EsportsAble will make a positive impact on young people’s lives while also helping local communities to learn how to run their own safe and inclusive esports events.

Frequently asked questions

Membership of the EsportsAble Academy is restricted to adolescents aged 13 to 17 years of age.
This age restriction is based on advice from the eSafety Commissioner, and is intended to ensure that participants are protected from the risk of abuse and exploitation from adults.
Please note: These age restrictions cannot be relaxed, even if parental consent is provided.
The EsportsAble Academy will focus on two of the most popular esports games - Rocket League and Marvel Rivals.
These games have been endorsed by the Queensland Department of Education for high school aged children.
- Rocket League: This game is rated “G” and has been approved for children 13 years and older.
- Marvel Rivals: This game is rated “PG” and has been approved for children 13 years and older.
There are three membership levels available. Level 1 is a general access membership, available to anyone interested in learning a little more about the EsportsAble Academy.
However, to access the full benefits of the academy requires members to obtain parental consent and validate their identity.
Level 1 Membership: Open to everyone but does not include access to the EsportsAble community, training resources, or the ability to pre-register for tournaments.
Level 2 Membership: Requires verification and parental consent. Provides full access to Academy resources, including access to the peer-peer community, training resources, and weekly “power-up: sessions.
Level 3 Membership: Unlocks access to personalised coaching and esports career advice. This level of membership is also a requirement for team registration for the local esports tournaments. This level of membership requires members to have completed all core online modules and be of “good standing” (i.e., no outstanding “Code of Conduct” breaches).
You don’t need to provide a reason, just email us and tell us to delete your account. We’ll take care of the rest.
Email: esportsable@qut.edu.au.
Yes, we strongly encourage parents and guardians of participants to attend. Details on how to register will be sent to parents of participating children prior to the event.
Please note: Only pre-registered and approved adults will be able to attend the event.