Participation Lead - Metro South (QLD)

About Us As an organisation, the AFL works tirelessly in all states and at all levels to enhance and grow the game – from grassroots to elite. Together, we put on the game, deliver important events, communicate with our fans, run community programs, develop coaches and umpires, collaborate with partners, delight members, support clubs and so much more. While our roles may vary, we are all united by a common goal, to progress the game for everyone to love and connect with Australia’s game.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer and firmly believe that diversity and inclusion is an important part of both the AFL and the communities in which we operate. Our game is for everyone, and we strive to be a workplace for everyone.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.

The AFL is committed to promoting and protecting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in our care. Please note, we undertake several screening processes to ensure this commitment is upheld, this includes ensuring the successful candidate to this position holds a valid employee Working with Children/ Vulnerable People check and a satisfactory criminal history record check.

About the Role For many children, their first experience in our game is through participation in NAB AFL Auskick, Superkick, junior and school football programs. The core purpose of the Participation Lead is to grow participation through the professional delivery of these core programs in the Gold Coast area. Additionally, the Participation Lead trains and supports a team of casual staff and AFL SportsReady trainees to ensure participation programs are delivered in a professional, safe and consistent manner.

This role is critical to driving participation growth on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers regions and involves working closely with the Gold Coast SUNS to grow the game of AFL across the region.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Delivering NAB AFL Auskick and Superkick programs in community football clubs and schools

Delivering school football competitions and programs

Implementing growth, transition and retention strategies from NAB AFL Auskick and Superkick school programs into junior club football

Leading quality control measures throughout all participation programs

Collaborate with the Gold Coast SUNS to enhance participation and elevate brand awareness

Supporting the Participation & Programs Manager – Metro South with the participation strategy including deployment, staffing, budget and regional execution

Onboarding, training and supporting our casual workforce

Mentoring and supporting Participation Coordinators and Trainee Development Officers

Working closely with Junior Community Clubs to build inclusive, sustainable environments and pathways including enhancing player recruitment, retention and transition

Leading by example with the input of data into our CRM – Salesforce

Contributing to key projects within and outside of core role and supporting and contributing to the success of the broader team

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

Previous leadership experience & proven ability to train and mentor staff (both full-time and casual) to deliver quality participation programs

Ability to work autonomously with strong organisation and planning skills

A fun and enthusiastic nature with a passion for working with children

Excellent relationship and stakeholder engagement

Ability to identify problems and provide quality solutions

Demonstrated ability to work with volunteers and club committees

Excellent verbal communication skills

Ability to adapt to change, remain effective and calm when faced with changing tasks, responsibilities, or people

Demonstrated knowledge and interest in Australian Football

Valid Working with Children Check – Blue Card

OUR CULTURE Please visit www.afl.com.au/careers/our-organisation

THE PERKS

Play The Day Your Way – a flexible approach to your working life

My Development – lean into the AFL’s My Development program consisting of on-the-job training, coaching and mentoring, and formal learning

Play Well – access to our extensive Health and Wellbeing program centered around our belief in a healthy body, healthy mind, and healthy workplace

My Benefits – with thanks to our AFL Corporate Partners, access great benefits and discounts

AFL Silver Memberships – permanent team members can access AFL matches at Marvel Stadium and the MCG, enjoy and share the experience of our game with your family and friends!

Applications Close 13 March 2026

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