Venue & Government Partnerships Manager - QLD

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

This is a key role in Queensland that will coordinate national and local resources and work closely with national staff to assist the AFL to deliver the goals of Towards 2030 – The AFL’s National Infrastructure Strategy and Q30 – AFL Queensland Facilities Plan across this State.  This role is a key member of AFL Queensland’s Leadership team.

In addition to operational leadership of Queensland based function staff, the role will assist the National Head of Venue Network Enhancements and Partnerships and the Head of AFL Queensland to develop and maintain strong, healthy government relationships and partnerships at all levels of government that can help drive the growth and health of our game in Queensland.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

Key Accountabilities:

• Work with the AFL’s Venue Network Enhancement and Partnerships team to plan for and drive local achievement of Towards 2030’s & Q30’s goals for all levels and formats of our sport.  This includes a focus on the growth of ground numbers where they are most needed to support our booming participation numbers in Queensland.
• Lead the successful planning, funding, design and implementation of key elite, talent and 2nd tier projects locally.
• Manage strong relationships with strategic partners including the Queensland Government, local Councils and other planning/infrastructure development organisations and/or venue operators on behalf of the AFL.
• Oversee the Queensland completion of the annual audit of all venues in their state/ territory.
• Develop strategies to maximise investment in election cycles and all major government funding opportunities.
• Contribute to projects within and outside of core role to assist with broader AFL Queensland and AFL objectives.
• Support and contribute to the development and success of the broader team.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

Core Competencies:

• Be a strategic and collaborative leader with strong financial acumen and a commitment to fostering a high-performing, team-focused environment.
• Possess demonstrated strong experience fostering effective relationships with government and in the planning, delivery and activation of sporting infrastructure environments.

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: 16 November 2025