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Intro
What could be more exciting than a career in the sport and recreation sector?
With a wide variety of jobs and career pathways available, the sport and recreation sector can be a fun, challenging and fulfilling environment to work and progress your career.
Developing athletes, planning and managing facilities, delivering sport participation programs and instructing outdoor adventure activities are just a few examples of the different jobs and careers within sport and recreation.
This guide will introduce you to some of the disciplines within the sport and recreation sector and provide a glimpse into the roles and requirements that exist in these areas.
This guide has also been developed to provide you with an overview of the many roles in the sector to assist your career decision making. Various study options and work experience have also been included.
There is no discrete pathway into the sport and recreation sector. Careers can commence in many ways, depending on your ambitions, skills and interests. More often people progress into the sector along either the vocational education and training pathway or tertiary pathway with an ATAR.
Short-course qualifications in coaching, officiating, camp instructing and pool lifeguarding are examples of ideal ways to start in sector through new qualifications and experience in volunteering and paid employment opportunities. This type of employment can complement career progression when undertaking multi-year study.
Selecting a career path is a big decision. Be brave, seek the advice and guidance of others and follow your passion.
Good luck!
Western Australia is a unique playground for sport and active recreation activities. Reliable sunny weather, world-class beaches and spectacular landscapes make for endless and enjoyable sport and recreation experiences in our natural environment.
Most of us treasure memories of playing cricket in the backyard or down at the local nets, shooting hoops and kicking the football with family and friends. Sport is a strong part of Australian culture and we love watching our sporting heroes compete and achieve success on the world stage.
Sport in Australia is built largely upon a federated model. Clubs are predominantly affiliate members of State Sporting Associations and State Sporting Associations are usually affiliate members of National Sporting Organisations. With more than 5,500 sport and active recreation clubs and 100 State Sporting Associations (SSA Annual Census 2017) there are many opportunities to be involved in the delivery and development of sport, as well as to grow participation and foster talent.
Western Australia has 137 local governments who invest significantly into the provision of public open space (ovals and parks) and community facilities (leisure centres and club rooms).
The community cricket pitches, netball courts, football ovals and other sports playing areas allow some 500,000 Western Australians to play sport (SSA Annual Census 2017). There are many sport and recreation related jobs within local government. Planning and maintaining facilities and parks, operating aquatic, recreation and fitness centres, delivering community events and developing clubs are just some examples.
Optus Stadium, Perth Arena and the WAIS High Performance Service Centre are world-class facilities that support our talented athletes and national league teams to train and compete. The high-performance environment comprises a diverse range of specialised roles, such as strength and conditioning, nutrition and psychology to supporting athletes and teams reach their potential and succeed. Sports tourism is increasing, with events around the state requiring a significant number of volunteers and paid workers.
In our natural environment, the Munda Biddi and Bibbulmun Track are renowned trails that individually stretch for hundreds of kilometres.
In addition, there is a vast trail network across Western Australia that enables recreational walking, running, cycling, snorkelling and horse riding. Our coastline is windy, creating the ideal conditions for activities like kiteboarding, windsurfing and sailing. Adventure and eco-tourism are both growing industries and there are many opportunities in outdoor recreation as outdoor instructors, leaders, managers, teachers and commercial operators.
The fitness industry plays a key role in improving the health and fitness of Western Australians. The industry has experienced significant growth with an increase in fitness instructors and centres. Fitness instructors motivate and coach clients through a variety of exercises and advice to achieve personal goals.
Dr Cheryl Kickett-Tucker is mad about basketball and shows others how sport is pathway to freedom and opportunity. Read about Cheryl's journey.
Education plays an important role in preparing for entry into the workforce and ensuring you have the skills necessary for ongoing employment and lifelong learning. Depending on your skills, motivations, aspirations and life situation, you may decide to study at a university (tertiary institution) or you may choose the vocational education and training (VET) pathway, which favours a more transitional approach from school to the workforce.
Deciding on your study or career path uses four key stages: knowing yourself, finding out what’s out there, making decisions and taking action (Department of Training and Workforce Development).
Ask yourself the following questions:
Take action for more information and guidance:
Although the university and VET pathways involve different styles of learning and skill development, there are some jobs that can be obtained through either the VET pathway or tertiary pathway.
A good example is a Sport Development Officer:
Sport development careers focus on the many aspects of developing sport, such as coordinating sport participation programs, developing pathways and improving the performance and capacity of individuals, teams and organisations. This area requires good organisational, written and communication skills and a sound knowledge of sport and club organisational structures and personnel.
The following courses support advancement in sport development, management and administration:
A Sports Coach’s primary job is to provide expert training and support for athletes. Coaches are responsible for player development, team-building, on-field strategies and team selection. They ensure peak performance and fitness levels are achieved during crucial times, such as competitions, tournaments, matches, trials and qualifying events. Strong organisational, interpersonal and communication skills are essential to be an effective and successful coach.
Umpires are responsible for overseeing the rules of a sport during play. An umpire needs to possess the ability to make instantaneous decisions, resolve conflict effectively and be able to handle stress and pressure well. Depending on the sport, they may also need a high level of fitness to keep up with the game. While umpiring and officiating is generally not a viable career option for most, it can be a great way to get some part-time experience and employment.
A Sports Official oversees a sporting event to make sure the rules of the game are being followed. Officials are to comply with and advocate all policies and procedures of the sport. Whilst an umpire is responsible for ensuring the rules are followed on the field, the official is responsible for ensuring that all other rules applicable to the event are adhered to both on and off the field.
Rusty Hazel has loved netball since she was a girl and has turned that love into being a coach. She’s also the engine room behind a program which engages students in netball. Read Rusty's story.
A Club Development Officer provides support and advice to build the capacity of community sport and recreation clubs through better planning, management and governance practices. A Club Development Officer may deliver workshops, develop resources and refer clubs to other services.
A Sport Development Manager will implement policies and support the coordination of sport and active recreation in community clubs, facilities and State Sporting Associations by maximising the use of infrastructure, funding and human resources. Sport Development Managers have a lead responsibility in implementing priority action programs for the development and maintenance of a sport, taking into consideration the local, state and national agendas for the sport.
Sports Development Officers devise and coordinate the delivery of sport and recreation programs, services and initiatives. A Sports Development Officer will plan and organise sport projects and campaigns to increase participation and inclusion. They work to enable sport to be accessible for everyone and aim to get people living a healthy lifestyle. Sports Development Officers work alongside local government authorities, community clubs, private organisations and educational institutions to put a range of strategies and initiatives into action.
A Sports Administrator is involved with the operational aspects of an organisation, including day-to-day processes and stakeholder relations. There are opportunities to work as a Sports Administrator in sport clubs (amateur and professional), State Sporting Associations, national sporting associations, schools, health facilities, sport charities, not-for-profit organisations and community centres. A Sports Administrator may be responsible for activities such as fundraising, sponsorship, advertising, and liaising with local government, governing bodies and other clubs.
This role involves planning and directing the sales and marketing activities of a sport or recreation organisation. Job responsibilities include sales and marketing operations such as research, advertising, promotion, distribution, pricing and selling, as well as recruiting, training and managing marketing and sales staff. Sports Marketing and Sponsorship Managers aim to drive excitement around the sport or club, its products and services and to build brand awareness. This requires creativity and innovation, as well as an approachable manner and good presentation skills.
A Sports Marketing Officer applies formal marketing principles to the promotion and advertising of sport organisations, products, services and individuals. Effective sport marketing is primarily concerned with building fan identification, where fans and members can align and engage with a branded good or services affiliated with the club or sport. Major employers include sport management organisations, national and international leagues, governing bodies and community organisations.
A Public Relations or Communications Manager works to promote an organisation, including its athlete and team profiles and the programs it undertakes (for example, community engagement and youth development programs). Major responsibilities include stakeholder management, event organisation, broadcasting, printed material and media relations. Public Relations or Communications Managers work to generate positive publicity around their sporting events, athletes and support staff.
Events provide organisations with the opportunity to showcase their activities and services in the community or the elite sphere. Event management is the process of planning, preparing and producing an event. The event sector focuses on key aspects of event design, organisation, coordination and evaluation. This includes a knowledge of sport delivery systems, funding and finance and venue and event operations management. The sport and recreation events sector is fast-paced and dynamic. The ability to perform well in high pressure situations is a necessary skill for success in this industry.
Australia has a renowned international sporting profile and is globally recognised as a consistent, high-performing sporting nation. There’s widespread recognition from the government, industry and general population that sport is vital for Australia’s economy and tourism. Planning and delivering major sporting events is a global growth sector and Australia’s reputation for sporting excellence and an active lifestyle puts us on the world stage.
The following courses support advancement in event management:
A Community Events Officer or a Coordinator works with or within local governments and private organisations to deliver events designed to promote community participation.
They manage the development, organisation and evaluation of project plans and coordinate various community-based events. The Event Coordinator oversees event logistics and delegates tasks to team members for the preparation and running of the event.
Sports Event Officers are responsible for planning and delivering each aspect of a teamor a facility for a sporting program or event. Sports Event Officers can work at every level from community to professional sport to prepare and host successful and exciting events. Event officers need to be detail-oriented, good communicators and team players. They need to possess good critical thinking and problem-solving skills to devise creative solutions if something doesn’t go to plan.
Event Managers or Directors are responsible for overseeing all aspects of an event, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, sponsorship, marketing and other necessary logistics. Event management involves understanding the brand and the vision of the organisation, identifying the target audience, creating the event concept, planning for the venue and for catering, coordinating the technical aspects before finally launching the event. Post-event analysis and ensuring a return on investment have become significant drivers for the event industry. The nature of event management is extremely fast paced, with managers required to perform under strict deadlines and often outside of normal work hours.
Sport science is the application of scientific principles to exercise and sport. Sport science careers focus on the theoretical and practical elements of human movement, anatomy and biology. It’s a rapidly expanding field which can open the door to a range of jobs in areas such as research, education, elite sport and fitness. By learning about the body and how it functions you will be able to assist people in the areas of health, nutrition, injury prevention, rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and could even go on to assist amateur and elite athletes in enhancing their performance.
The following courses support advancement in sport and health science:
An Exercise Physiologist is an exercise specialist who designs and delivers exercise programs. Exercise Physiologists understand the human body and the benefit that exercise can have on the mental and physical state of an individual.
They specialise in movement for rehabilitation, exercise for health and wellbeing, chronic and complex medical conditions, work conditioning and improvement in sports performance. Exercise Physiologists can assist in the treatment of medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis and asthma. They can also advise on improving functional movement ineveryday life.
Exercise Scientists are professionals who specialise in applied anatomy and athletic performance. An Exercise Scientist is concerned with the physiological testing and training of elite athletes. They assist athletes and coaches to achieve the best possible sporting performance by applying knowledge and techniques from the areas of medicine, physiology, biomechanics (the study of human movement), nutrition, psychology and physiotherapy. The role can be research-based in a lab or in the field to investigate and improve training techniques and equipment. Most employers of Exercise and Sport Scientists are universities, institutes, academies of sport as well as the Australian Defence Force.
Sports Psychology is the study of the psychological and mental aspects associated with playing sport. Sports Psychologists are experts in the areas of concentration, mental preparation, anxiety, stress management, overtraining, burnout, team building, leadership, communication and conflict resolution.Sports Psychologists work with elite athletes to enable them to maintain motivation and balance their on-field career with the personal aspects of their life.
An Exercise Rehabilitation Physiologist assists athletes and other individuals with effective rehabilitation programs following serious injury or surgery to minimise the recovery period and reduce the long-term effect of an injury. Exercise Rehabilitation Physiologists use their skills in exercise prescription to empower clients and enable them to manage their own health. Their skills are particularly relevant for clients who are looking to age well and live independently.
A Sports Physiotherapist is a healthcare professional who specialises in maximising human movement, function and potential.Physiotherapists are trained to assess and diagnose the underlying causes of joint, muscle and nerve injuries and provide effective treatment to assist in injury recovery and prevention. Treatment can include massage, dry needling and monitored exercise.
Western Australia has a strong and viable high-performance sport system. Critical to its success are the need for clearly defined athlete, coach and official pathways that encompass sport development, talent identification and systems for elite athlete performance.
The following courses support advancement in high performance sport development and management:
A Player Development Manager works with athletes to develop areas of their professional and personal lives, on and off the field. They monitor both the day-to-day and the longer-term development of the athlete. A Player Development Manager will design and administer relocation schemes and transition programs (into and out of the sporting environment) as well as mentor and support athletes through further education and training.
Athlete Agents work to market an athlete, or products that are related to that athlete, to promote the athlete’s career within his or her given sport. An Athlete Agent looks out for the best interests of their athlete clients. The Agent is responsible for meeting with team owners, managers, coaches and other individuals to promote and negotiate terms on behalf of the athlete. Agents help athletes sign contracts with teams, work out sponsorship agreements with major companies and organise public appearances. Accreditation for this role is dependent on the sport and is usually accessed through private training providers.
The High Performance Manager leads the development and implementation of a systematic approach to managing all State talent development/high performance programs. The aim of these programs is the identification and holistic development of talented athletes, coaches and officials. The High Performance Manager is also responsible for developing policies and procedures for all areas relating to high performance programs, ongoing monitoring and evaluation, as well as creating sustainable communication systems with key stakeholders that support the high performance pathwayat State and National levels.Sports Nutritionists, Psychologists, Scientists and other Health Professionals fit into High Performance Development and Management too.
Information technology and digital media are vital to the coverage of sport as popular entertainment. Nowadays a comprehensive knowledge of social media platforms and digital marketing are essential for a career in this area. Careers in sports media expand across a wide spectrum and include jobs as a sports writer or editor, along with positions in sport broadcasting and media relations.
Sport broadcasting increases public exposure, marketing opportunities, brand awareness and lucrative sponsorship. The ability to generate and maintain positive mainstream media exposure will drive revenue and industry growth.
The following courses support advancement in sport media:
The emergence of portable devices and wireless internet coverage has created new markets and opportunities for business development. Social Media provides a highly accessible communications platform for fans, athletes, coaches, administrators and educators to share information and express their opinions. Social Media and Content Managers plan and implement a social media strategy in line with the organisation’s brand identity, audience and goals. They aim to build and enhance the follower/fan base and strengthen user engagement. Social Media Managers define content strategy, communication style and control the execution and promotion of calendar content.
Michael “Thommo” Thomson has been a fixture on the Western Australian sports reporting scene for close on four decades. Learn why he’s so passionate about sports reporting.
With increased promotion of physical activity and healthy lifestyles, people are joining fitness centres and taking part in group classes more than ever before. Fitness/gym is the most popular form of organised sport and physical recreation in Australia and is the second most popular form of physical activity behind walking for exercise (AusPlay WA 2017). The demand for fitness experts and training facilities has created a wide range of employment options and greater opportunities within the fitness industry.
Fitness centres run a wide variety of programs to meet the needs of different community groups, from intensive training for professional athletes to relevant exercise for older adults.
The working environment of the fitness sector is exciting and rewarding. If you love working with people and enjoy keeping fit and active while you work, then a career in fitness is for you. Good communication skills are essential, as you will be required to give clear instructions and encourage motivation and enthusiasm in your clients.
The sector operates seven days a week, covering varied hours each day. This means that job hours are flexible to cover split shifts, early morning and evening sessions. Employment in the fitness industry is usually on a casual or a part-time basis, however, by obtaining the necessary fitness qualifications and industry registrations, you will greatly enhance your chances of attaining full-time employment.
The following courses support advancement in the fitness industry:
For this guide, the fitness industry is separated into two main areas:
A Marketing Officer applies formal marketing principles to the promotion and advertising of fitness and health centres, products and services to boost membership and promote events. As part of a marketing team, you will drive engagement and generate positive member conversation by putting sports marketing theory into practice. A Marketing Officer will devise and deliver campaigns and programs that utilise digital marketing resources e.g. social media.
Marketing management is a business discipline focused on the practical application of marketing techniques and the management of a firm’s marketing resources and activities. Marketing Managers are often responsible for influencing the level, timing and composition of customer demand. They will manage the marketing team and oversee all operations and campaigns.
Membership and Sales Consultants coordinate the sale of memberships within a fitness or health club or centre. Consultants are required to maintain minimum sales quotas, coordinate new package arrangements and guide new members through the registration process.
This role involves managing and mentoring a team of Sales Consultants. This includes inspiring and driving the team to meet sales budgets and key performance indicators and reporting sales figures and results to the club’s General Manager.
Fitness Centre Managers are responsible for the overall running of a centre, including allocating and controlling a centre’s resources, activities and facilities. Managers are also involved in determining the future direction and planning for the financial growth of a centre
The community recreation sector will design and lead activities and programs that enable the community to stay active, improve their fitness and have fun. The broader benefits of sport and recreation go beyond the personal benefits of participation, it can contribute to community identity, cultural inclusion and social interaction. Sport and recreation can be used as a platform to address socioeconomic inequality and cultural barriers. Community development aims to unite the community and promote pride and equality on and off the sports field.
Community recreation involves a variety of stakeholders including state and local government, fitness and recreational facilities, parks and recreation authorities, and other community centres. Job opportunities in this area can range from policy development in state and local government, to leading and supporting recreational programs for the local community or maintaining the infrastructure of a facility or park.
The following courses support advancement in community recreation:
Community Recreation Officers plan, coordinate and deliver a range of recreation programs for the community and promote the activities on offer at recreational facilities and community open spaces. Duties include identifying the needs of the community, setting policy, liaising with community groups and prioritising projects and budgets. Community Recreation Officers can provide ongoing advice, support and consultation for sport and recreation organisations.
The Seniors Program Officer works with seniors’ groups to deliver programs designed to increase participation, social interaction and physical activity among older age groups. Seniors Program Officers need to understand ageing, chronic pain/injury and group facilitation. They may work in a variety of settings including recreation centres, community hubs and retirement villages.
Recreation Centre Managers are responsible for managing all aspects of a facility or group of facilities. They plan, organise and direct the operations of sports and fitness programs, activities and services. This can involve working on finance and publicity for the facility’s programs and managing team leaders and other individuals involved in running the activities. Recreation Centre Managers can operate at a strategic level, making high-level decisions and contributing to the future direction of the facility. They are also responsible at an operational management level, dealing with more technical issues such as repairs, maintenance, security and cleaning.
A Community Recreation Manager is responsible for setting the strategic direction of an organisation, developing and implementing policy, managing finance and human resources and engaging with a range of stakeholders. A Community Recreation Manager liaise with managers of recreation and community groups to include their input into local government policy and community events.
A Programs Coordinator develops and implements programs to be provided within an aquatics, recreation or leisure centre. Duties include planning, budgeting, determining the nature and demand for services, identifying trends in existing programs and overseeing the development of new programs. Program Coordinators will work with all ages and abilities to understand their needs and preferences and deliver programs and facilities which meet these requirements.
Sport facilities need to meet user demand and plan for future growth. Most sporting facilities in Australia are operated and maintained by local governments, schools or private sector business entities, although some are operated by State Sporting Associations. Facility planning should focus on supporting increased participation, affordability and accessibility. The capacity to host local, national and international competition may also be a key consideration when planning or developing a sporting venue. Opportunities exist for Australian expertise and consultation in all stages of the major sporting event process including bidding, planning, risk assessment, logistics and cultural ceremonies. Western Australia has potential to capitalise further on its history of sporting credentials from the Optus Stadium and our existing suite of sporting venues.
The following courses support advancement in Facility Management and Planning:
A Facility Planner typically works in local government to consider the future needs of a community and plan facilities according to the local government’s strategic plan. They analyse and interpret the growth and demand of community activity and participation in sport and recreation and plan for sustainable and suitable venues and public open space. They will consult with community groups and stakeholders for their input and feedback throughout the planning process. Facility planners in State Government often bring a region of local governments together to do regional sporting plans, work with state sporting associations to develop sport based strategic facility plans, and plan for state, national and international infrastructure such as trails and stadiums.
This role involves liaising with architects and other professionals to design recreational facilities and develop open space strategies based on identified needs. Facility Designers will perform site surveys, prepare detailed scopes of facility design and develop conceptual sketches for prime contractors, architects, and general contractors. A blend of creativity and practical knowledge are essential for this career.
A Facility Manager can be responsible for all operational aspects of a facility or group of facilities. The Facility Manager will ensure the safe and cost-effective operation of the venue. Managers will supervise all events and activities held at a facility, including liaising with external sporting bodies, concert promoters and other event managers and stakeholders who provide services for an event. Managers assume responsibility for planning and implementing asset management programs to support thesustainable fit for purpose operations of associated facilities. These managers operate at a strategic level, making high-level decisions and contributing to the future planning and direction of the venue.
Aquatic operations and management roles are required to supervise and coordinate competitive and recreational aquatic facilities to ensure the safety, sanitation and maintenance of all aquatic spaces.
The following courses support advancement in aquatic operations and management:
Completing the Austswim course provides individuals with the essential skills to teach swimming and water safety to persons from four years of age in swimming pools and confined natural shallow water venues. Once again, this a great qualification to have and it will supplement your income whilst studying. Good swim instructors are never out of work and hours are very flexible.
Aquatic Centre Managers oversee the daily operation and management of an aquatic venue to provide a safe and attractive environment for patrons. Managers possess sound knowledge of the safety procedures and requirements for the handling of chemicals used for water treatment and water chemistry tests as required by regulations. An Aquatic Centre Manager actively pursues activities which promote the use of the facility to involve patrons and improve attendance.
This position oversees the plant operations and monitors pool water quality. It also provides supervision for patrons and undertakes facility management projects and facility asset maintenance and management programs. The vocational training involved delivers the required qualifications to operate Group One. Aquatic Facilities in line with the WA Health Department Code of Practice for Aquatic Centres.
The aquatic recreation industry relies heavily on a pool of casual and permanent lifeguards to provide supervision and safety in an aquatic environment. This qualification could be your entry into an exciting career in the aquatic recreation industry or provide a great opportunity to support yourself during your study for a tertiary qualification. Swimming competency and a first aid certification are essential for this role.
Jeff Fondacaro was a plumber with a life-long love for water and now works in the aquatic industry. Read about Jeff’s story in sport and recreation.
The parks and gardens sector comprises work across policy, planning and research for parks and public open space. Jobs in this sector work to ensure the provision of assets, services, facilities and programs, which may also include the parks and gardens industry. This includes community and urban planning, environmental considerations, conservation and tourism.
The following courses support advancement in the parks and gardens sector:
A Greenkeeper is responsible for the design and maintenance of public parks, golf courses and gardens operated by various local governments and managers of sports grounds. A Greenkeeper will supervise and coordinate activities of workers involved in preserving the grounds, fine turf and synthetic surfaces of a facility in good playing condition. Greenkeeper tasks can include mowing, rolling and levelling turf, pegging and marking out lines and logos, installing nets, posts and stumps and placing other sports equipment on playing areas. They are also skilled in identifying and correcting soil deficiencies, interpreting landscape plans and constructing rockeries, paths or ponds. This role requires a considerable amount of outdoor exposure and physical activity.
Under general direction, Parks Supervisors manage and coordinate the development and maintenance of state/local government, parks and prioritise works and budgets allocated to parks. They do this by supervising park staff including rangers, landscapers, greenkeepers and gardeners. Park Supervisors maintain records and prepare reports of work activities, collect data to coordinate programs with other departments and oversee the work of vendors and contractors.
Landscape Planners and Architects devise and guide the layout and functionality of parks and gardens to maximise the balance of public open space and garden areas. Landscape Architects design functional and attractive streetscapes, parks, playgrounds, transport solutions and tourism ventures. A Landscape Architect’s job duties may vary by industry but drawing plans, selecting plants and advising on the installation of structures like walkways and water features are important tasks of most landscaping jobs.
A Parks and Recreation Manager is responsible for the leadership, management and successful operation of a parks and recreation unit. The role has both operational and strategic responsibilities including facility horticulture, parks infrastructure and overseeing the delivery of recreational programs. The manager establishes the goals and objectives of a facility with the aim of providing the best recreational experience to the public while conserving the natural resources of the area.
Camps are located across Western Australia in coastal, riverside and inland environments.Camps can be hard-top dormitories, soft-top tent camping experiences or single-day events.Camps provide a brave space where participants can undertake led-adventure experiences or participate in self-directed activities. The camp experience provides opportunity to develop personal, social and physical skills and challenge individuals and teams from their normal comfort zone.
The following courses support advancement in camps operation and Management:
Instructors deliver a range of outdoor recreation programs including kayaking, canoeing and sea kayaking activities, team building and ice-breaker activities, abseiling, high rope courses, rock climbing and mountain biking. Instructors encourage and motivate participants through these activities while maintaining a technically safe environment. Experience in outdoor recreation and qualifications such as a First Aid Certificate (including Resuscitation Certificate) and aquatic rescue qualifications are preferable prior to employment as an instructor.
A Camps Program Coordinator will develop, supervise, conduct and review programs for the camp. They coordinate the rostering of qualified instructors to conduct recreation programs for the camp and fulfil the logistical requirements to satisfy service delivery safely. A Program Coordinator will also assist management with the administration of recreation programs including accounts, reports and statisticsand program innovation.
A Camps Manager provides leadership, direction and management of a camp’s programs and operations. They will recruit, train, coordinate, evaluate and support camp staff. The Camps Manager will create and implement the camp’s strategic plan and manage budgets and financing. Camps Managers evaluate and adapt existing camp programs, whilst researching and developing new programs and activities. The manager will lead by example and ensure that the safety and customer service standards of the camp are upheld.
Outdoor recreation careers are based around providing opportunities for individuals, groups or organisations to experience activities in an outdoor environment. Jobs can include working as an outdoor guide or instructor, a program developer for an adventure company or as a manager of a campsite. You could be running your own adventure tourism business or leading adventure therapy or corporate team building programs.
Western Australia is famous for its unique wildlife, vast outback and endless coastline. Adventure journeys for Australians and foreign visitors alike range from surfing first-class waves, to exploring four-wheel driving routes and challenging long distance walking trails. Tourists travel from all ends of the globe to experience the thrills and fun that Australia has to offer.
The following courses support advancement in camps operation and management:
Outdoor recreation guides and instructors teach or guide outdoor activities such as rafting, kayaking, diving, skiing, fishing, climbing, trekking and caving. They are experts in their activity and can advise on specific skills, safety aspects and refining technique. This job requires excellent communication skills and plenty of patience.
Tourism workers are employed in businesses providing goods and services associated with leisure or business activities that people undertake when they are away from home. These include conferences, tours, sport and adventure activities or cultural performances. The emphasis in this area is on recreation and entertainment, particularly for the leisure market. A tour guide showcases local culture, landscapes or wildlife, which requires workers to have in-depth local knowledge and excellent communication skills.
Outdoor Leaders guide groups safely through outdoor activities such as bush walking, mountain biking, climbing, paddling and scuba diving. Duties include assessing individual capabilities, monitoring progress, identifying risk factors and developing program plans. An Outdoor Leader needs to have a high level of skill in their outdoor activity or activities, knowledge of occupational safety and health procedures relating to activities they undertake and strong competency in outdoor survival skills and first aid.
The role includes developing programs to achieve learning outcomes, often to suit specific needs and requirements of clients. A Program Developer will plan and develop recreational courses and activities based on their target audience or tourism objectives. A Program Developer will consider the occupational health and safety aspects of their programs as well as any liability/risk management issues.
This role involves assessing individuals’ capabilities in a range of outdoor activities to determine if they meet the criteria to become certified instructors/leaders in those activities. An assessor will help the organisation to deliver training outcomes to the highest quality and align to nationally accredited and industry recognised competency standards. Assessors also assure the quality of organisations by monitoring and evaluating assessment methods and conducting regular on-site audits.
With hundreds of trails across Western Australia, from long and short distance walks, to mountain bike paths and four-wheel drive tracks, there’s a lot of development and maintenance work that goes into ensuring these trails are well-managed and cared for. Jobs in the trails industry are predominantly in local and State Government and involved with the planning, construction, management and maintenance of trails and networks. Tourism and conservation organisations are involved with development of trails in Western Australia.
An owner of an Outdoor Adventure Company strategically organises, develops, schedulesand supervises the day-to-day operations of an entire facility or tour. As a manager of an outdoor adventure company, you will be responsible for determining the direction of the organisation, including which activities and programs to be involved with, liability aspects, branding and financial controls. The manager will lead their team members to deliver excellent customer service and ensure that all certifications and training are current and up-to-date.
A growth area in outdoor recreation is for professional and corporate team building programs. This position includes delivering programs that enhance trust and collaboration between corporate working groups and teams to improve organisational efficiency.
Eco Tourism is the term used for environmentally sustainable and culturally responsible tourism activities. An Eco Tourism Operator focuses on experiences in natural areas, leading to environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation. Eco Tourism Operators conduct tours and provide information about the ecology of certain areas, and how to minimise the human impact on it.
The contribution of the school environment to a child’s daily physical activity and education is significant. Sport participation in a school environment provides benefits measured by physical fitness, personal wellbeing, cognitive development and social interaction. Sport in school can be a positive influence on lifelong involvement participating in and supporting sport and recreation.
A career in teaching, whether it be in primary or secondary education, requires an enthusiastic and patient person who has good communication skills and enjoys participating in sport and active recreation. Teaching roles related to sport and recreation include physical education, health education, science and outdoor education teacher/instructor. Teachers instruct students in the development of their motor skills, encourage participation and inclusion, promote an enjoyment of active recreational activities, and create an awareness of what contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Teachers will encourage and develop their students’ physical fitness and skills, as well as their self-esteem and interpersonal skills.
Teaching roles reside in the education sector and require a relevant bachelor degree as a minimum.
The following courses support advancement in education:
PE Teachers work in primary or secondary schools and are responsible for developing and coordinating physical activity programs that align with the requirements of the curriculum. PE teaches educate their students about community values and physical and mental health issues. Good PE Teachers have the capacity to motivate their students to perform physical activities while encouraging them to be competitive and cooperative at the same time. PE teachers must possess a Bachelor of Education degree from a registered institution.
Outdoor Education Teachers work in secondary schools and educate students on a wide variety of outdoor activities and environmental awareness. Outdoor education refers to organised learning that takes place in an outdoor setting and includes activities such as hiking, climbing and canoeing. Employment as an Outdoor Education Teacher requires proven competency and certification in the selected activity and the capability to alter the difficulty level to suit varying levels of ability.
Lecturers and tutors deliver training courses at institutions in specific areas such a Certificate IV in Fitness at TAFE. Lecturers and tutors in universities generally teach courses at a Bachelor level, such as a degree in Sports Science. To teach at these levels, you must possess a qualification in the relevant field of study, a qualification in training and assessment, vocational skills to the level at which you would like to teach, as well as current industry skills and awareness of the subject.
Paul Delane works in outdoor education. Read Paul’s story in sport and recreation.
Do you want to get ahead of the pack? Educational courses offer knowledge and theoretical skills but limited practical experience. One of the best ways towards employment in the sport and recreation sector is to gain experience by volunteering within sport and recreation organisations. It can be competitive within the sport and recreation sector to obtain employment, so we encourage you to develop practical experience and skills by volunteering in a variety of roles while you study.
A volunteer role can help you to develop contacts with the people working in the sector.Contacts can prove useful when applying for future positions. Volunteering can be a way to help build or expand your network, improve your resume and make a positive impression in the job market. It’s also a great way to make new friends and have some fun.
Working as a volunteer greatly assists in the development of practical skills, many of which are not taught in a formal setting. Potential employers hold volunteering in high regard, therefore candidates who have volunteering experience may have an advantage over those who don’t.
Be proactive, contact your local sport and recreation providers to seek out volunteer opportunities that align to your interests.
Part-time and casual work can also be a great way to get a foot in the door in the sport and recreation sector. Part-time and casual work can be undertaken while studying and can lead to a full-time position being offered at the completion of your study. Types of part-time and casual work include community recreation, outdoor recreation, aquatics and fitness centres and retail sporting outlets. Community sports clubs and recreation groups can offer umpiring/officiating and junior development roles.
Bob Welch works in the sport and recreation industry and is also one of our industry’s most respected and dedicated volunteers. Read why he says some of life’s best moments come from getting involved.
Apprenticeships and traineeships are an excellent way to combine training with work, enabling you to have a job while you complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You can begin an apprenticeship or traineeship while you’re still at school in years 11 and 12. You can also undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship as a school leaver or as an adult worker re-entering the workforce or looking for a change of career.
A traineeship is an employment-based training arrangement. Generally, training is conducted both on and off the job. A trainee will receive training in most instances for up to 12 months. This is done by combining structured, supervised on-the-job training with up to 13 weeks of off-the-job training at a registered training organisation.
Traineeships can provide a significant advantage to school leavers as they undertake study in a selected field, while applying those skills directly on the job. Trainees have the advantage of earning an income as they learn.
The organisations below are some of the registered training organisations that can assist you in undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship. The Department of Education and Training (DET) My Skills website can also assist in setting you up with a traineeship. The DET is the state government agency responsible for all areas of education and training in WA.
When you finish your apprenticeship or traineeship you will be awarded your qualification which formally acknowledges the skills and type of training received. This is a nationally recognised qualification that’s held in high regard in many overseas countries as well.
The DET have a Jobs and Skills Centres in the Perth CBD and in North, South and Central regional WA which can assist you with any career queries you have. The Jobs and Skills Centres provide career planning advice, assistance and resources.
SEDA Group partner with peak industry organisations to provide year 11 and 12 students with unique educational opportunities and experiences specific to their interests. Students receive a tailored career plan to develop key employability and life skills for a successful future. The sport programs include partnerships with Basketball WA, Cricket Australia, Fremantle Dockers Football Club, West Coast Eagles Football Club, Netball WA and Perth Glory.
AFL Sportsready is a not-for-profit company dedicated to helping young Australians develop careers through traineeships and educational opportunities. The program offers traineeships for young people in a wide variety of sectors including sport and recreation, business, administration and education.
Not only is Bella Ndayikeze a footy coach and player, she’s also a mentor, community leader, volunteer and inspiration showing young migrants and their families the importance and benefits of sport. Read about Bella's journey.
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for regulated qualifications in Australian education and training. It incorporates the qualifications from each education and training sector into a single national qualifications framework.
Visit the AQF website for an interactive explanation of each level and its criteria.
The following list represents a range of not-for-profit, government and commercial organisations that perform a variety of key roles in the sport and recreation sector, as well as organisations which can offer general and career specific advice.
This resource was prepared by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries with the view to providing generic information on the nature of the sport and recreation sector, employment and career opportunities and educational courses and qualifications. This resource should not be explicitly relied upon in guiding careers in the sport and recreation sector. The department recommends seeking expert advice from career advisors, education providers and other industry professionals.