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

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 South 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. 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.

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

Child Safety Standards

The AFL has a commitment to ensure we provide professional, safe and enjoyable environments to children and young people who participate in our game.

The executive and management of our organisation are responsible for undertaking recruitment and ensuring that our process's and systems are robust and thorough, as well as being communicated and understood internally. Our recruitment process is a 5-step process and includes meeting and engaging with a variety of key people from across the organisation as well as completing thorough verification checks.

As part of our comprehensive recruitment process we ensure that all safety and legislative checks such as working with children checks, Criminal background checks, employment and personal reference checks are completed to ensure anyone working for the AFL is fit for the role they are employed in, prior to commencing employment.

The AFL takes the safety of children and young people very seriously and reviews all process and procedures in line with current state and federal legislation.

OUR CULTURE

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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: 4 June 2025