Gold Coast SUNS Launch New Online Accelerated Diploma of Leadership and Management for Working Professionals

The program provides participants with a genuine opportunity to upskill and prepare for leadership roles across sport, business, and community sectors.

Commencing in October 2025, the 22‑week program combines real‑world leadership scenarios drawn directly from the SUNS’ elite environment with flexible online learning. It is designed for aspiring leaders, athletes, and professionals seeking to advance their careers in sport and beyond.

Leadership at the heart of elite sport

Behind every elite team is a network of professionals driving strategy, culture, and performance. From building high-performing teams and managing people to navigating complex organisational challenges, leadership is a critical skill set in modern sport.

Gold Coast SUNS General Manager of Community, Education, and Retail Jane McGough said the partnership was an exciting step in fostering talent both on and off the field.

“Leadership in elite sport goes far beyond the playing group – it’s about building strong cultures, engaging communities, and leading teams through constant change.”

“This program gives participants a unique opportunity to learn from real SUNS case studies and develop skills that transfer across sport, events, and business sectors.”

Flexible online delivery with exclusive SUNS insights

The program will run online with live evening classes from 6pm until 9pm twice per week and three Saturday intensives held at the SUNS’ Austworld Centre at Carrara.

This model caters to working professionals, student-athletes, and those balancing multiple commitments, allowing them to gain nationally recognised leadership skills without pausing their careers.

Students will engage directly with SUNS staff and executives through guest lectures, real-world project briefs, and networking opportunities, gaining first-hand insight into how leadership principles apply across high-performance sport, fan engagement, and community initiatives – all key areas in which the SUNS are currently thriving.

Industry perspective: building future leaders

TAFE Queensland Manager of Academy of Sport Partnerships Don Harley said the program was designed to create pathways for the next generation of leaders in sport and beyond.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Gold Coast SUNS on another course that combines flexible study with genuine industry exposure.

The online accelerated Diploma of Leadership and Management is one of the most versatile qualifications we deliver – and embedding it in an elite sporting context gives graduates a distinct edge when stepping into leadership roles across sport, events, or any industry.”

Program details

• Start date: Monday 6 October 2025
• Duration: 22 weeks (two evenings per week, Mondays and Wednesday’s 6pm – 9pm + three Saturday intensives)
• Location: Online + in-person intensives at the Gold Coast SUNS’ Austworld Centre (Carrara)
• Eligibility: Minimum three years’ professional experience in sport, business, events, or related industries

A new pathway into leadership careers

Graduates will emerge with practical skills in people management, communication, team leadership, strategic planning, and organisational change – all highly sought-after skillsets across sport, events, and business.