Football Development Lead - Tiwi Islands

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

AFLNT is seeking an energetic and values driven individual to develop and embed strong local junior, youth and women’s AFL competitions and programs accessible to the local Tiwi Islands communities and provide operational support to the Tiwi Bombers Football Club (TBFC), who participate in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL).

Focus areas for this role includes providing engaging and meaningful activities for youth and young adults in their home communities to support enhanced player development outcomes, whilst developing the Tiwi Islands football eco-system, including coaches, umpires, volunteers. This role works closely with the Tiwi Bombers Football Club to support the weekly operational and logistics requirements of competing in the NTFL.

This role is based in Wurrumiyanga, with service delivery to communities throughout the Tiwi Islands, and works alongside the Regional Development Lead – Tiwi Islands. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential to harnessing strong working relationships with Traditional Owners, school and service providers, Government agencies and partner organisations.

Due to the remote location, this role offers additional benefits and support including a remote living support package.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply for this position.

Please note this is a max term position until December 2026.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Game Development:

• Deliver a full calendar of junior and youth AFL competitions, carnivals, school programs, and talent pathways
• Expand female football opportunities and support local high-performance academies for male and female players
• Build capability in local, casual employees through training and mentoring
• Promote healthy lifestyles and community connection through AFL-based programs
• Strengthen the Tiwi Islands Football League by developing coaches, umpires, volunteers, and strong governance practices

Football Operations:

• Develop strong connections and relationships with key regional stakeholders to help execute an effective overall club operations model
• Foster a strong relationship and connection between TBFC and Tiwi Islands Football League (TIFL) board to ensure there is strong alignment between the two organisations
• Coordinate all travel, transport, and logistics for the TFBC teams
• Maintain efficient participant data systems and operational processes
• Lead TBFC home-game operations, including event management, facilities, NTFL compliance, and stakeholder coordination

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

• Strong ability to work independently, manage time, solve problems and meet deadlines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build rapport across diverse groups
• Able to work weekends and after hours, and ability to travel to First Nations communities (including driving un-sealed roads, travelling by ferry and by light aircraft)
• Skilled in coordinating, training and supporting volunteers
• Experience maintaining stakeholder partnerships and positively influencing others
• Demonstrated cross-cultural capability, particularly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• Valid driver’s licence and NT Working with Children’s Check (Ochre Card), and valid (or willingness to obtain) Bronze Medallion, First Aid, Silver AFL Coaching Accreditation

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

Applications Close: 12 December 2025