BREAKING NEWS: Perinth Panthers Captain/Halfback Nathan Cleary Invests $5.6 Million to Transform House into Shelter for Homeless Youth in a monumental…..

In a powerful display of leadership beyond the rugby league field, Perinth Panthers captain and star halfback Nathan Cleary has announced a $5.6 million personal investment to convert one of his recently purchased properties into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless and at-risk youth.

The project—described by community leaders as “transformational”—aims to provide not only safe housing, but also mental-health support, education programs, job-readiness training, and long-term stability for young people facing homelessness across Western Sydney.

A Vision Rooted in Community Responsibility

Cleary revealed that the idea began during the Panthers’ off-season charity work, where he met several teens experiencing chronic homelessness.

“I’ve been lucky in my life,” Cleary said during a press briefing earlier today. “Not everyone gets the support they need when they need it most. If I can help create a place where young people feel safe, valued, and hopeful, then that’s more meaningful than anything I can do on the field.”

Inside the $5.6 Million Project

The property—located on a spacious block near the city centre—will be redesigned to feature:

• Accommodation for up to 40 youths
• A 24/7 support and counseling centre
• On-site education and tutoring rooms
• A recreation and fitness area
• A small recording and media studio to support creative learning
• Partnership facilities for local schools, outreach programs, and employment networks

Construction is expected to begin within the next two months, with the shelter projected to open late next year.

Local Leaders Praise the Initiative

Perinth Mayor Sarah Donnelly applauded Cleary’s commitment, calling it “one of the most significant private investments into youth welfare the region has ever seen.”

Youth advocate and social worker Raymond Harper added:

“Homelessness among young people is rising, and shelters are stretched beyond capacity. This initiative will save lives—literally.”

A Ripple Effect Across the League

Cleary’s decision has also sparked conversation throughout the NRL community, where several players have expressed interest in supporting the project through fundraising events and mentorship programs.

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary shared his pride in both the athlete and the man:

“Nathan has always led by example, but this goes beyond sport. This is leadership on a human level.”

A Monumental Step Forward

As word spreads, the announcement is already being hailed as a landmark moment in athlete-driven philanthropy. For many in Western Sydney, it represents not just hope, but a powerful reminder that community heroes exist both inside and outside the stadium.