Following the introduction of four dedicated Club Development Officer positions across AFL Cairns earlier this year, we're now seeking a passionate and motivated football person to support the continued development of the Manunda Hawks and Cairns Hawks.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a genuine difference in community football, working collaboratively across two separate football clubs with a shared commitment to growing the game, developing people and creating stronger pathways for the future.

We're looking for someone who understands community football, enjoys working with people and has the drive to turn good ideas into meaningful outcomes.

ABOUT THE ROLE

You'll work across junior, women's and girls', and senior football to strengthen development, support coaches, grow participation and create clear pathways across Hawks football.

A key part of this role will be working collaboratively with the Manunda Hawks and Cairns Hawks leadership groups, recognising that both are separate entities with their own committees, priorities and responsibilities.

You'll help identify opportunities to strengthen connections between the clubs, align football development where appropriate and support sustainable growth across all levels of the game.

Your focus will include:

- Supporting the planning and delivery of football programs across both clubs

- Strengthening junior player development and pathways into senior football

- Growing women's and girls' football and participation opportunities

- Supporting coach recruitment, development, accreditation and mentoring

- Building stronger connections between junior and senior football

- Supporting player development, welfare and transitions

- Working alongside both clubs' Presidents, committees and football leaders on seasonal priorities and development plans

- Recruiting, developing and supporting volunteers to help deliver football programs





- Strengthening football operations, governance and club systems

- Identifying opportunities for shared initiatives, resources and programs that benefit both clubs

- Helping build sustainable football programs that support the long-term future of Hawks football

PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER

This position forms part of AFL Cairns' broader initiative to provide dedicated full-time football development resources within our senior clubs.

Our aim is to strengthen football at club level by investing in people who can grow participation, develop players and coaches, build pathways and support the volunteers and committees who deliver our game.

While you'll be employed by AFL Cairns, you'll work closely with both the Manunda Hawks and Cairns Hawks, supporting their individual priorities while identifying opportunities for greater collaboration.

Both clubs maintain their own governance and identity. This position is about building positive working relationships, strengthening football outcomes and creating opportunities that benefit the broader Hawks football community.

You'll also be connected to AFL Cairns' football and development network, providing professional support, resources and opportunities to collaborate across the competition.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

We're looking for a football person who is also a people person.

Someone who understands the importance of club culture, respects the contribution of volunteers and can bring people together around shared football outcomes.





You'll need to build strong relationships across two club environments, understand their individual priorities and work collaboratively with their Presidents, committees and football leaders to make things happen.

Ideally, you'll bring:

- Strong knowledge of community football and AFL development pathways

- Experience in coaching, football development, sports administration or community sport

- An understanding of junior development and player pathways

- An ability to develop, mentor and support coaches

- A commitment to growing women's and girls' football

- Strong football planning and organisational capability

- An ability to work collaboratively with separate club committees and leadership groups

- Strong communication and relationship-building skills

- Experience working with and supporting volunteers

- Initiative and an ability to turn football plans into action

- A commitment to AFL Cairns' values of Community, Professionalism and Integrity

- A valid Blue Card

WHAT WE OFFER

- Full time position

- $80,000 per annum plus superannuation

- 2-year fixed-term contract

- Employed by AFL Cairns, working collaboratively across Manunda Hawks and Cairns Hawks

- Close working relationships with both clubs' Presidents and committees

- Professional payroll, HR and onboarding support through Cazalys Group

- Professional development and access to AFL Cairns football resources

- Connection to a broader network of football development professionals

- Evening and weekend work will form part of the role

HOW TO APPLY

Apply through SEEK or email ••••@aflcairns.com.au with:

- Your resume/CV

- A cover letter outlining your experience and what you could bring to the development of Hawks football

- Two referee contacts

Applications close Monday 30 November 2026.

For enquiries, contact AFL Cairns at ••••@aflcairns.com.au or 07 •••• •000.

📌 CLUB DEVELOPMENT OFFICER MANUNDA HAWKS (Cairns)
🏢 AFL Cairns
📍 Cairns