TAFE Queensland launches first-of-its-kind Sports Diploma Hub connecting students directly with Queensland’s sporting industry

The program, which officially opens for its first intake in January 2026, provides a unique opportunity for students to complete either the Diploma of Sport (SIS50321) or the Diploma of Event Management (SIT50322) while gaining hands-on experience across Queensland’s peak sporting association bodies.

Delivered through TAFE Queensland’s Academy of Sport, the Sports Diploma Hub will see students engage with organisations such as Football Queensland, Gymnastics Queensland, Hockey Queensland, Queensland Rugby Union, and Tennis Queensland through weekly field trips, guest speakers, and collaborative projects.

Academy of Sport, Manager, Don Harley, said the Sports Diploma Hub represents a major step forward in connecting education with Queensland’s booming sports sector.

“Queensland’s sporting industry is growing rapidly in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032, and there’s never been a better time to prepare for a career in this field,” Don said.

“The Sports Diploma Hub gives students real access to industry, not just through classroom learning but through direct engagement with the organisations that make Queensland’s sporting ecosystem so strong.”

Students will spend 12 months studying full-time at TAFE Queensland’s South Bank campus, complemented by regular site visits to Brisbane’s leading sporting organisations.

“It’s a truly immersive model,” Don said. “Each week, students will visit the headquarters of major sporting associations across Brisbane to gain a unique understanding of how different sports apply coaching, management, and event principles - not just within their own code, but across the broader industry.

They’ll then have the opportunity to complete up to 70 hours of work experience with their chosen sport, putting their skills into practice and gaining valuable real-world experience.”

The Sports Diploma Hub has been designed to create clear pathways into higher education and employment. Graduates can continue into university study or pursue entry-level roles in sports administration, coaching, and events management.

“We’ve built this program to ensure students graduate career-ready,” Don said.

“They’ll complete a nationally recognised diploma, develop practical industry experience, and gain a network of contacts that can open doors to their first professional opportunity in sport.

“We’ve already seen students benefit from exceptional industry experiences,” Don said. “Our Queensland Reds cohort recently supported the delivery of the British and Irish Lions Test Match - one of the largest and most prestigious sporting events in the world.”

The program also supports TAFE Queensland’s broader focus on 2032 Olympic and Paralympic workforce development, ensuring Queensland continues to grow the skills base needed to support future sport and event industries.

Applications now open

Applications for the Sports Diploma Hub are now open for the January 2026 intake.
Students can choose between the Diploma of Sport (SIS50321) or the Diploma of Event Management (SIT50322).

Location: South Bank campus, Brisbane
Duration: 12 months full-time
Delivery: Face-to-face with weekly field trips and work-integrated learning.