The Gold Coast SUNS Academy plays an important role in developing talented young footballers and creating a pathway for them to grow, both as athletes and as people.

We’re looking for an Academy Regional Coordinator to lead the delivery of our Academy program in Cairns. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys working with young athletes, can bring people together and wants to contribute to the development of football talent in the region.

Reporting to the SUNS Academy Manager, you’ll work closely with our Cairns-based coaches, players and families, alongside the broader SUNS Academy team and local football community.

What you’ll be doing

In this role, you’ll:

• Coordinate and support the day-to-day delivery of Academy training in Cairns
• Help create a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment where young athletes can develop
• Work with coaches to deliver training aligned with the SUNS Academy curriculum and player development approach
• Prepare and oversee training sessions, equipment and resources
• Manage session administration, including attendance, communications, training programs and injury reporting
• Build strong relationships with players, parents and guardians, coaches and key local stakeholders
• Work with Academy staff to identify development opportunities for individual players and the broader program
• Coach training sessions and work directly with athletes when required
• Support the identification and development of talented athletes from diverse backgrounds.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience coaching or working with young people
• Holds a minimum Level 1 AFL Coaching Accreditation, or is willing and able to obtain it
• Understands talented player identification and development
• Can lead, motivate and develop young athletes
• Builds positive relationships and communicates well with players, families, coaches and stakeholders
• Is organised, proactive and comfortable managing the practical details that keep a program running smoothly
• Works well as part of a broader team while being confident working independently in Cairns
• Holds a current Working with Children Check.

Level 2 AFL Coaching Accreditation, experience working with talented or elite athletes, familiarity with football platforms such as HUDL, Team App or TeamWorks, and a current Queensland driver licence would be well regarded.

The opportunity

This is a casual position, commencing November 2026 through to October 2027, paid at a flat rate of $38.24 per hour. You’ll also receive supplied Academy apparel and access to SUNS, AFL, AFLW and Academy coaching resources and professional development opportunities.

If you’re passionate about developing young people, love footy and want to play an important role in building the talent pathway in Cairns, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter via email to john.deitz@goldcoastfc.com.au

Applications close Sunday 8 November 2026