Lions and TAFE Queensland bring sport career pathways to Sunshine Coast

The Brisbane Lions Institute of Business and Sport will deliver its nationally recognised dual Diploma of Sport and Diploma of Leadership and Management (SIS50321/BSB50420) at Meridan Sports Complex.

School leavers and aspiring sports professionals can complete both qualifications in 12 months, gaining practical experience and industry connections without relocating to Brisbane.

Delivered through TAFE Queensland's Academy of Sport, the program builds combines classroom learning with exposure to an elite sporting organisation.

Students will explore careers in sport development, coaching, commercial operations, leadership, administration and event management.

The program includes industry projects, guest speakers and opportunities to complete up to 100 hours of work-integrated learning.

Brisbane Lions Education Program Manager, Lucy Pullen said the expansion would open more doors for young people in the region.

"You don't have to be an elite athlete to build a career in professional sport," Ms Pullen said.

"Our program has given students practical experience across the Lions AFL and AFLW programs. Now we're bringing that opportunity to the Sunshine Coast.

"It's a chance for local students to turn their passion for sport into practical skills and industry connections."

TAFE Queensland Academy of Sport Manager Don Harley said the program would help students prepare for opportunities ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"Brisbane 2032 will create opportunities across sport, events and venue operations," Mr Harley said.

"We want Sunshine Coast students to have the qualifications, connections and practical experience to pursue those opportunities.

"We've seen graduates secure roles with leading sporting organisations, including the Lions. We look forward to extending that pathway to more students."

Graduate Hunter Hopkins turned his passion for AFL into a career with the Brisbane Lions after completing the dual diploma at Brighton Homes Arena.

Previously a casual Game Development Officer with AFL Queensland, Hunter is now the Lions' Student Experience Coordinator, supporting recruitment and coordinating work experience.

"The thing that shocked me the most was the amount of access we had to the business and the staff," Hunter said.

"I definitely wouldn't be in the position I am today without the experience I had with TAFE and the Dual Diploma," he said.

Sunshine Coast Information Evening

Prospective students, parents and Lions supporters can learn more at an information evening at TAFE Queensland's Mooloolaba campus on Monday 16 November 2026 at 6:00pm.

Attendees can also have their photo taken with the Lions' 2024 and 2025 AFL Premiership Cups.

Program details

• Course: Diploma of Sport (SIS50321) / Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420)
• Location: Meridan Sports Complex, Sunshine Coast
• Commencement: January 2027
• Duration: 12 months
• Delivery: Face-to-face learning, industry engagement and practical work experience
• Information Evening: Monday 16 November 2026, 6:00pm, TAFE Queensland Mooloolaba campus