Outside the Locker Room Charity Ltd

Outside the Locker Room Charity Ltd (OTLR) is an Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming mental health awareness and support within sporting communities, schools, and workplaces. Founded in 2015 by Jake Edwards, a former professional AFL player who has openly shared his personal struggles with depression and suicide attempts, OTLR aims to change the game for mental health in sport and broader communities across Australia[2][5].

Mission and Vision

OTLR's vision is to change the game for mental health in sport by fostering environments where mental wellbeing is openly discussed and supported. Its mission focuses on delivering mental health literacy education programs designed to build both collective and individual mental health and wellbeing within communities[2].

Programs and Reach

OTLR provides interactive mental health education sessions and welfare referral support services. These programs are delivered by trained facilitators alongside registered mental health professionals, ensuring both educational depth and empathetic support. Through these efforts, OTLR engages sporting clubs, schools, and businesses across Australia, promoting mental health awareness and resilience at the grassroots level[1][3].

Since its inception, OTLR has significantly expanded its impact:

• Over 600 communities participate in OTLR programs nationwide[1].
• More than 1,700 interactive sessions have been conducted.
• The programs have reached over 70,000 participants[1].
• OTLR actively provides services in at least 378 communities, underscoring its wide geographical reach[3].

The organization also employs a mobile app to provide direct access to mental health resources and support, enhancing accessibility for participants[1].

Leadership and Structure

OTLR is governed by a Board of Directors and led by a dedicated team including:

• Jake Edwards, Founder
• Todd Morgan, Chief Executive Officer
• Grant Walker, Chair and Board Member
• Other board members and key management personnel who contribute specialized expertise in mental health and community engagement[2].

The charity holds Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR1) status, enabling tax-deductible donations to support its programs[2].

Significance and Context

Mental health is a critical issue in Australia, with suicide being the leading cause of death among young people and a high prevalence of mental illnesses emerging before age 25. OTLR addresses these challenges specifically within the sporting community, a vital social environment for many Australians. By integrating mental health education with sport and community participation, OTLR leverages the powerful social capital inherent in Australian sport, which is estimated to generate significant social and economic benefits nationally[1][5].

Funding and Partnerships

OTLR has sought partnerships and funding from government bodies to expand its reach, particularly targeting communities across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia. The organization proposed a $5.2 million funding plan over three years to extend its programs and deepen its impact[5].

Summary

Outside the Locker Room Charity Ltd represents a pioneering effort in mental health education and support embedded in sport and community settings in Australia. Through education, professional facilitation, and broad community engagement, OTLR continues to influence mental health outcomes positively, promoting open conversation and support networks that are vital to individual and collective wellbeing.

Note: The above article is based on publicly available information as of early 2025.

[1] https://otlr.org.au [2] https://otlr.org.au/about-us/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/5cb3183c-d1d9-e911-a812-000d3ad1ce4e/profile [4] https://www.instagram.com/otlr/ [5] https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-05/171663_outside_the_locker_room.pdf