Maddocks recently acted in the landmark partnership between Black Dog Institute and the St Kilda Football Club, to acquire the Danny Frawley Centre Community (DFCC). This partnership marks a major milestone in mental health support and advocacy, particularly in the sporting industry.

The Danny Frawley Centre Community, established by St Kilda Football Club in 2022, is dedicated to mental health prevention and community support. Its focus areas include workplace programs and high school mental health education, as well as maintaining deep connections with community sports clubs in Victoria. 

Through their acquisition of DFCC, Black Dog Institute will expand the reach and impact of their mental health and wellbeing programs and enable greater support for individuals and communities across Victoria. 

The ongoing collaboration between Black Dog Institute and St Kilda Football Club aims to honour the legacy of Danny "Spud" Frawley, a beloved Australian Rules Football player who tragically passed away in 2019. Through the partnership, Black Dog Institute will have access to new fundraising opportunities at a commemorative lunch and game hosted by St Kilda Football Club - further strengthening the connection between sport and mental health. 

The Maddocks team was led by Partner Brendan Tomlinson, with assistance from Associate Chloe Tutt, Lawyer Emilija Batar and Partner Bruce Heddle and Lawyer Michaela Biggins on Employment aspects.

Commenting on the matter Brendan Tomlinson said, "The Black Dog Institute is a long-standing client for Maddocks, and we are proud to have facilitated this landmark partnership. This collaboration will enhance the delivery of mental health programs and create lasting positive impacts in the community."