Participation Lead

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 so that everyone can share in its heritage and possibilities.

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.

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.

PURPOSE
– Why This Role Is Important

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 Cairns, Port Douglas, and Far North Queensland area. Additionally, the Participation Lead trains and supports a team of casual staff to ensure participation programs are delivered in a professional, safe and consistent manner.

This role is critical to driving participation growth in the Cairns region and involves working closely with the AFL Cairns Competition Managers and community clubs to grow the game of AFL across the region. The AFL is committed to promoting and protecting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in our care. The AFL undertakes several screening processes to ensure the appropriate protection of children in its care.

Please note, employment in this position is subject to the successful candidate holding a Valid Working with Children Check and a satisfactory criminal history record check.

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
• Support Regional Lead – North Queensland with the participation strategy including
• deployment, staffing, budget and regional execution
• Onboarding, training and supporting our casual workforce
• Mentoring and supporting AFL Cairns Participation Coordinators
• 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

Applications Close: 07/09/2025