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 for everyone to love and connect with Australia's game.

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.

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 region. 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.

The Participation Lead – Metro Central is critical to driving participation in South Brisbane and the Western Corridor of South-East Queensland and involves working closely with the Brisbane Lions to grow the game of AFL across the region.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
Key Accountabilities

• 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 Brisbane Lions to enhance participation and elevate brand awareness in the Western Corridor
• Supporting the Participation & Programs Manager – Metro Central with the participation strategy including staffing, budget and regional execution
• Supporting the Participation Operations team with Game Development Officer appointments onboarding, training and supporting our casual workforce
• Mentoring and supporting Participation Coordinators and Trainee Participation 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
Core Competencies

• 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 Blue Card

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: 30 November 2025