Participation and Programs Manager - Southern Tasmania

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 Participation and Programs Manager is a key hands‑on leadership role responsible for driving AFL Tasmania’s participation growth strategy across Southern Tasmania. With momentum building behind the Devils and Tasmanian football entering a genuine golden period, this role places you in the driver’s seat at one of the most exciting moments in the sport’s history in the state. It is a rare opportunity to help shape what the future of football looks like in Tasmania.

The role exists to ensure Australian Rules Football continues to thrive as a fun, vibrant, inclusive and sustainable sport for generations to come. You will achieve this by designing and delivering targeted, high impact programs that introduce more people to the game, deepen engagement and strengthen pathways from schools and NAB AFL Auskick through to junior and community football. These programs will spark joy for Tassie girls and boys, build confidence and create lifelong football memories. From first kicks at school clinics to the excitement of Auskick and the pathway into junior and community football, you will play a key part in helping young Tasmanians fall in love with the game.

You will lead a passionate team to elevate participation across NAB AFL Auskick, school programs, community initiatives, diversity and inclusion programs and emerging participation formats. This includes setting ambitious participation targets, identifying growth opportunities and delivering programs that inspire new players, activate communities and build the next generation of football in Tasmania.

A key part of the role involves working closely with local clubs and associations to understand community needs, address participation gaps, support volunteers and align programs with club environments. This collaboration is essential to strengthening pathways and ensuring the game thrives at the grassroots level.

This role requires a strategist, a motivator and a hands‑on operator, someone who can build momentum, develop strong relationships and deliver programs that leave a lasting impact on the football landscape in the South during a defining era for the game.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

In this role, you’ll bring strategy to life on the ground while leading a team committed to growing football across Southern Tasmania. Your days will be dynamic and hands‑on, blending people leadership, program delivery, community engagement, and strategic problem‑solving.

You will:

• Lead and mentor a team of Participation Coordinators, Trainees and Casual staff, ensuring high‑quality delivery of participation programs across all key segments in Southern Tasmania.
• Implement targeted strategies that drive growth across NAB AFL Auskick, Superkick, school programs, junior football, diversity initiatives and inclusion programs.
• Drive expansion through alternative and emerging football formats at junior, youth and senior levels, helping open new doors into the game.
• Develop and execute regional participation plans with your delivery team to maximise impact in the communities that need it most.
• Work closely with the Community Football team and local clubs to problem‑solve challenges, strengthen environments, and address local participation gaps.
• Partner with the Community Football team and affiliated associations to ensure clubs are safe, welcoming and inclusive for all participants.
• Analyse participation data to identify trends, challenges and emerging opportunities and respond with informed, proactive solutions.
• Lead strategies that transition participants from programs into junior club football, collaborating with STJFL and SFL clubs to build strong and sustainable pathways.
• Support management of the regional participation budget and monitor staff KPIs to ensure strong operational delivery.
• Contribute to key projects within and beyond your primary portfolio, helping drive broader outcomes for football in Tasmania.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER 

• Proven leadership capability and the ability to build strong, positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strategic planning strength, with the ability to translate strategy into clear, executable participation initiatives.
• A track record of implementing new programs or initiatives, with the drive to innovate and continually improve.
• Knowledge of the education and community participation sectors, helping you connect effectively with schools, clubs and local organisations.
• The ability to mentor, develop and support staff, creating an environment where your team can learn, grow and perform at their best.

Mandatory

• Experience in working with children and young people
• Well-developed verbal and written communication, interpersonal, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Qualifications Sports Coaching / Management, Recreation, Education or equivalent depth of experience
• Management experience
• Due to the nature of the sporting industry must be willing to work outside normal business hours from time to time such as evenings and weekends
• Tasmanian Driver's License
• Current Working with Vulnerable Children Check

Desirable

• Experience working with volunteers
• Sound knowledge of AFL or other relevant sporting environment
• Strong computer literacy to support AFL program requirements in the region

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:

17 March 2026