Umpiring Lead - NT
Date: 20 Apr 2026
Location: Darwin, Northern Territory, AU
Company: Australian Football League
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
The Umpiring Lead is a dynamic position that will play a critical leadership role for all the Northern Territory umpiring programs – including governance, program management and stakeholder engagement. This role has a strong focus on developing the Umpire environment across the NT through strategic guidance, umpire development and pathways.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
- Drive best practice program management for all community football umpiring programs, including governance, communications, operations, processes, systems, and stakeholder engagement.
- Provide leadership, guidance, and support for the Umpiring Coordinator – NT position to execute the key operations and administration requirements for umpiring programs.
- Ensure umpiring programs are welcoming, safe, and inclusive for all participants and team members to thrive.
- Provide leadership, guidance, and support for the Umpiring Growth & Engagement Lead, guide development and implementation of appropriate recruitment and retention strategies to ensure the umpiring availability can meet the demands of NT competitions.
- Oversee the governance and management of the umpiring operating budget.
- Develop strong and effective working relationships with key external stakeholders.
- Establish and implement a clear and professional umpiring pathway model in collaboration with key stakeholders.
- Drive deliverables through Project 500 recommendations
- Contribute to key projects within and outside of core role.
- Support and contribute to the success of the broader team.
OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER
- Stakeholder and people connection experience.
- Demonstrated knowledge & skills in the areas of AFL Umpiring (desired).
- Strong interpersonal, communication skills and emotional intelligence.
- Experience in establishing systems and processes to support the development of people and programs.
- Experience in creating positive environments.
- Has completed tertiary education in one of the following fields: education, sports management, or significant relevant experience in these fields.
- Demonstrated experience in planning, leading, and delivering curriculum of a program aligned to the business’ broader objectives.
- Ability to educate and influence diverse stakeholders.
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:
11 May 2026