In recent years, the humble rugby jersey has become more than just match day gear, it’s a canvas for storytelling, pride, and cultural celebration. For Aussie schools and community sports clubs, commissioning an Indigenous rugby jersey isn’t just about looking deadly on the field, it’s a meaningful way to honour First Nations culture, connect with local communities, and educate the next generation.
So, how do you create one? What makes them unique? And how can your club or school go about getting a custom Indigenous design? Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways
- Indigenous rugby jerseys celebrate culture and community.
- Designs tell stories through meaningful symbols and art.
- Work with Indigenous artists for authentic designs.
- Easy 3-step process: choose style, customise, order.
- Suppliers like Team Spirit Sports support custom Indigenous jersey designs across Australia.
- Ideal for schools, clubs, NAIDOC Week or special rounds.
The Rise of the Indigenous Rugby Jersey
A Brief History: Wallabies & First Nations pride
The Wallabies debuted their first Indigenous jersey back in 2017, designed by Dennis Golding, a proud Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay artist from Redfern. It featured a wallaby moving forward through circles, symbolising community, player journeys, and strength. That jersey made headlines, it was the first time any national Aussie team wore Indigenous art on an official playing kit.
Since then, the Wallabies have worn several Indigenous jerseys, including one designed by current player Dylan Pietsch, who is Wiradjuri. These jerseys are now staples in test matches, World Cup games, and are worn with pride across schools and clubs inspired by the national side.
NRL & Super Rugby clubs leading the way
The NRL was quick to follow with Indigenous Round jerseys worn by every club. Teams like the Rabbitohs, Storm, and Dragons showcase stunning designs that tell stories of place, family, and culture.
In Super Rugby, clubs like the Brumbies, Reds, and Western Force have also unveiled bespoke Indigenous jerseys during special rounds, often designed in partnership with local artists and communities.
What Makes Indigenous Jerseys So Powerful?
More than fabric: Storytelling through art
Indigenous rugby jerseys are built on yarns, tales of people, places, and connections. Each jersey is a visual narrative, blending colours, shapes, and symbolism that represent Country, community, spirit, and often specific players or moments in history.
Symbolism in common motifs: animals, circles, paths, land
Here are a few common themes:
- Animals: Wallabies, kangaroos, and goannas, representing strength or local totems.
- Circles: Symbolise camps, meeting places, or people.
- Pathways: Show journeys taken by players or generations.
- Dot patterns & waterways: Reflect Country, rivers, and songlines.
Case Studies: Iconic Indigenous Rugby Jerseys
Wallabies jersey by Dennis Golding
Golding’s artwork placed a wallaby front and centre, chosen because it can only move forward. Surrounding it were 14 circles for past Indigenous Wallabies and larger ones for future generations. It was more than a jersey, it was history worn on the back.
Dylan Pietsch’s 2025 Lions Tour jersey
As a proud Wiradjuri man and Wallaby, Dylan Pietsch took on the challenge of designing the jersey for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour. His artwork featured Uluru, waterways, and native flora/fauna, all telling his personal story and the broader First Nations legacy.
NRL Indigenous Round jersey designs
The Rabbitohs’ 2023 jersey was inspired by community artist Uncle Joe Walker and incorporated the totems of players. The Dragons collaborated with local elders and artist Lani Balzan to share stories of resilience and respect.
Super Rugby club examples
- Brumbies: Wore a stunning navy and ochre jersey with motifs from Ngunnawal Country.
- Reds: Their jersey featured the rainbow serpent, showing the creation story of land and life.
- Western Force: Used dot motifs and sand tones to reflect the WA coast and Indigenous heritage.
How to Create a Custom Indigenous Rugby Jersey (In 3 Easy Steps)
Designing a deadly Indigenous rugby jersey for your school or club doesn’t need to be complicated. With modern online tools, you can bring your idea to life in just three easy steps, while still keeping the process culturally respectful and collaborative.
Step 1: Select Your Jersey Style
Start by choosing a base jersey from a range of rugby designs, short sleeve, long sleeve, traditional or modern fit. Pick a style that fits your team’s vibe and playing needs.
Tip: Make sure the jersey cut supports active movement and contact sport.
Step 2: Add Colour, Logos & Indigenous Artwork
Next, it’s time to get creative. Using an online design tool or a guided design service, you’ll customise:
- Colours: Match your club palette or choose earth tones that reflect local Country
- Logos: Upload your club badge, sponsors, or school crest
- Artwork placement: This is where your Indigenous design comes in
Here’s where you collaborate with an Indigenous artist. Either upload an existing artwork file or request your supplier to pair you with a local artist. They’ll help create something truly unique, with meaning tied to your club’s location, people, and story.
Respectful Design Note: Only use cultural motifs, symbols, and stories with permission. A proper design process should involve the artist from the beginning and include their story in the final presentation.
Step 3: Get an Instant Quote or Place Your Order
Once your design’s looking the goods, you’ve got two options:
- INSTANT QUOTE: Submit your mock-up and get a price estimate sent to your email
- BUY NOW: Confirm your sizing, quantities and place your bulk order right then and there
Most suppliers will let you mix youth and adult sizes and offer reorders with your final design saved on file.
What to Expect:
- Minimum order: Usually around 20–30 jerseys
- Turnaround time: 3–6 weeks from artwork approval
- Price guide: depending on features and volume
- Reorders: Easy once your design is finalised
Ready to Design Your Indigenous Rugby Jersey? Click here to get started with Team Spirit Sports.
Let your team wear something with meaning.
Let your jersey tell a story.
Let’s honour culture, the right way.
Tips for Launching Your Indigenous Jersey at School or Club
Organise a jersey unveiling event
Make it a celebration, invite the artist, parents, local elders, and media. Share the story behind the jersey. Let players speak about what it means.
Involve community elders or the artist
Whether it’s a Welcome to Country, smoking ceremony or a short speech, community involvement turns a jersey into a moment of pride.
Combine it with NAIDOC Week or Reconciliation Round
These are perfect times to unveil a custom jersey and run cultural events alongside your match or school program.
Honour the Game, Honour the Culture with Your Jersey Design
Custom Indigenous rugby jerseys have become a powerful way for Aussie schools and clubs to celebrate culture, show pride, and bring communities together. From the Wallabies to grassroots teams, these jerseys honour stories of place, players, and Country, woven into every stitch.
By partnering with Indigenous artists and using easy online tools like Team Spirit Sports’ 3-step builder, your club can design a jersey that’s both performance-ready and deeply meaningful. Whether you're preparing for NAIDOC Week, Reconciliation Round, or just want to showcase community connection, an Indigenous jersey lets your team wear a story that matters.
Ready to design your own Indigenous rugby jersey?
Get started with Team Spirit Sports, fast, respectful, and 100% Aussie-owned.
FAQs About Indigenous Rugby Jerseys
1. Can we use an Indigenous jersey for multiple seasons?
Yes, many clubs reuse their jersey or keep it as a limited-edition strip for special rounds.
2. Can we include club and sponsor logos?
Absolutely, most suppliers offer full sublimation, so your logos can be embedded right into the artwork without compromising the design.
3. Do we need to get permission to use symbols like dot painting or animals?
Yes, always work with an Indigenous artist and follow their guidance. They’ll let you know what’s appropriate to include.
4. Are these jerseys suitable for actual gameplay?
Yep, they’re made for action. Just make sure you select a reputable supplier who uses moisture-wicking fabrics and rugby-specific cuts.
5. Can we order youth and senior sizes together?
Yes, most suppliers will let you mix sizing in one order, perfect for school teams or clubs with juniors and seniors.