Game Development Officer (Darling Downs, Rockhampton, Hervey Bay & Mackay)

Company description:

At the AFL, we work across the country and at every level of the game, from grassroots to elite, helping shape the future of Australia's game.

Our teams grow and strengthen the game, create moments that bring fans and communities closer to it, and build what comes next for our people, our industry and the generations that follow.

Whether we are supporting clubs and competitions, developing coaches and umpires, delivering major events, growing participation or helping bring Marvel Stadium to life, we are united by a shared purpose to progress the game so more people can love it and connect with it.

We are values-led, ambitious and team-first, and we back our people to make a real impact.

Job description:

Game Development Officer - Casual Role Darling Downs | Rockhampton | Hervey Bay | Mackay Join the team shaping the future of Australia's game. This is your chance to do work that has real impact, in an organisation that moves fast, aims high and plays a meaningful role in the lives of millions across the country through football. Every role at the AFL helps progress the game, so more people can love it, connect with it and see what is possible through football. Whether you've played aussie rules, rugby league, soccer, netball, cricket, or you have no prior sporting experience, your experience is valuable with us. You don't need to know AFL. You simply need a passion for sport, a positive attitude, and a genuine interest in helping children stay active, connected and engaged through community sport. The opportunity As a Game Development Officer, you'll play a vital role in connecting children, families and communities to Australia's game. Through the delivery of participation programs, school initiatives and community activations, you'll help create positive experiences that inspire lifelong involvement in sport and physical activity. Working across regional Queensland, this casual role offers variety, flexibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within your local community. You'll represent the AFL across schools, clubs and community settings, delivering engaging football experiences that support participation, inclusion and the growth of the game. Many of the children you work with will be experiencing AFL for the very first time. Through your energy, enthusiasm and commitment, you'll help create positive experiences that build confidence, encourage connection and foster a lifelong love of being active. Who This Role Could Suit
This role is great for people who:

• Have coached, played or been involved in any sport and know how to engage and motivate kids.
• Are studying education, sport science, or youth work - or are looking for experience in those areas.
• Are parents or carers re-entering the workforce who love working with kids and want flexible hours.
• Are looking for a career change or semi-retired looking for flexible, meaningful work that keeps them active and connected to the community
• Want to give back to the community and promote active, healthy lifestyles for kids.

If you are based in the Cairns, Mackay, Rockhampton, Hervey Bay or Darling Downs regions, - this is your chance to help kids stay active and involved in team sport.

What you'll own As a key member of the AFL Queensland participation team, you'll help bring football to life across schools, clubs, community settings and local events. You'll add value through:

• Delivering the Game - Run engaging football programs, school clinics and participation activities that encourage children to get active, develop new skills and have fun through sport.
• Creating Positive Participation Experiences - Deliver NAB AFL Auskick and NAB AFL Superkick programs that help children build confidence, make friends and develop a lifelong connection to physical activity.
• Building Community Connections - Work alongside schools, clubs and community groups to promote football participation and create welcoming pathways into local football environments.
• Championing Inclusion - Support programs that engage multicultural communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants, girls and women, and children of all abilities, ensuring football remains accessible and welcoming for everyone.
• Supporting Community Activations - Assist with football events, participation initiatives and game-day activities that create memorable experiences for children, families and communities.
• Growing Our Game - Contribute to participation outcomes that support the continued growth of football across regional Queensland.

What you'll bring

• Experience working with children and young people.
• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Confidence delivering engaging activities and programs to groups of varying ages and backgrounds.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated initiative, organisation and reliability when working in community-based environments.
• A commitment to creating safe, positive and inclusive experiences for participants.
• Ability to build positive relationships with schools, clubs, families and community stakeholders.
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including during school hours, before and after school, and occasionally evenings and weekends.
• Current driver's licence and access to reliable transport.
• A valid Queensland Blue Card, or the ability to obtain one prior to commencement.

Why you'll love being on our team At the AFL, you'll be part of a values-led team that aims high, backs each other and brings energy, care and integrity to work that matters. This is a place where people play to win, play as one team and play with passion, while always staying grounded in fairness, inclusion and respect. We work hard, support each other and create the conditions for our people to grow, perform and thrive. What you can look forward to:

• Flexible Work That Fits Your Life - Casual shifts with hours that vary week to week, from short two-hour sessions to longer program delivery opportunities during peak periods.
• Variety in Your Week - Get involved across school programs, community activations, AFL participation programs and football events throughout the region.
• Meaningful, Hands-On Impact - Make a genuine difference by connecting children, families and communities to Australia's game.
• Be Part of the Action - Represent the AFL in local communities and help deliver engaging football experiences that leave a lasting impact.
• Purpose-Driven Environment - Champion participation, inclusion and community connection while helping grow the game across regional Queensland.

Most shifts typically occur:

• During school hours for school programs and Competitions
• Before or after school for Auskick and Superkick
• After school for AFL Nines

Everyone has a place here Our game brings people together, and we want our workplace to do the same. We are committed to building a culture of belonging and an environment where people feel respected, included and able to thrive, and where diversity of background, experience and perspective makes us stronger. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. Whether you're a footy fan or new to our game, we welcome everyone to apply. We know great candidates don't always tick every box. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply, even if your experience doesn't perfectly match the job description. 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, including Working with Children checks and criminal history screening. Ready to play your part? Applications close 30 August 2026.