Disability Inclusion 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.

The AFL is Australia’s premier sporting organisation supporting a constantly evolving national competition which has experienced rapid growth over the past 10 years.  The AFL currently has 680 permanent employees across the five state bodies: AFL Vic, NSW/ACT, QLD, NT, Tasmania, and at AFL House.  The AFL organisation is responsible for growing and developing Australian Football across Australia.

PURPOSE – Please note this role is Max Term until approx November 2026.

The Disability Inclusion Participation Lead is responsible for leading and implementing AFL Victoria’s Disability Inclusion action plan across Victoria.

With a key focus on creating participation opportunities for people with a disability and ensuring there is on-going investment into football pathways for continuous participation, this role will drive the direction of key initiatives in Victoria. In addition to this, the role will also be responsible for the delivery of AFL Victoria’s Inclusion Leagues, ensuring strong participation and growth remains the priority.

DAY IN THE LIFE – what you will be responsible for      

• Upskill targeted NAB AFL Auskick & Superkick programs in the AFL’s All Play resources.
• Identify opportunities to support the development of the inclusion pathway from Auskick to Community Football or Superkick
• Identifying opportunities to utilise AFL Nines as a participation offering for people with a disability.
• Oversee the delivery of the Victorian Wheelchair Football League, including ensuring all operations are executed effectively.
• Oversee the delivery of the Blind Football League, including ensuring all operations are executed effectively.
• Coordinate the Toyota AFL Open for Team Victoria.
• Support FIDA in the delivery of their League, including identifying opportunities to support the pathway from Auskick to Junior Football.
• Provide guidance and support on identifying key Disability partnerships to support greater exposure of participation offerings to community.
• Manage the casual Disability Inclusion workforce, delivering adequate training to support upskilling in the inclusion space.
• Contribute to key projects within and outside of core role
• Support and contribute to the success of the broader team

MUST HAVE’S – what’s needed to help you be successful   

• Communication Skills
  • A strong ability to communicate to leaders
  • Ability to communicate to a wide range of stakeholders and communities
• Planning and Organisation

• Ability to develop action plans and meet outcomes
• Project coordination and management skills
• Ability to multitask, managing multiple priorities and areas at once

• Stakeholder Management – capability manage and maintain partnerships with key stakeholders.
• Strong operational skills. Being able to support delivering program outcomes

• Adaptable and flexible
• Results and performance driven
• Customer/ client centric
• Business acumen
• Personal effectiveness
• Collaboration and influencing

MANDATORY

• 2 years’ experience in a similar role
• A high level of knowledge and understanding of the Disability Inclusion space
• Strong knowledge, experience and understanding of Operational delivery.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and negotiate across varying community groups
• Strong analytical, negotiation and leadership skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

DESIRABLE

• Sound understanding of AFL and community football

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

Applications Close: 22 October 2025