About us

Special Olympics Australia (SOA) is a National Sporting Organisation for People with Disability (NSOD) providing sports, health and education programs that bring joy and inclusion to children and adults with intellectual disabilities and/or autism.

Part of the global Special Olympics network, the organisation provides inclusive sports training, programs and competition opportunities that enable over 30,000 people with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, improve wellbeing and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with the community.

SOA is sustained by donations, sponsorships, fundraising activities and grants from government, corporate and national sporting organisation partners. It operates through a national network of over 1300 volunteers and 40+ Member Clubs who deliver a range of inclusive sports training including athletics, basketball, bowling, gymnastics, swimming and more

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and motivated leader to take on the role of State Manager - SA. This role is responsible for leading the coordination and growth of participation opportunities across SA, including weekly sport programs, competition events, and inclusive community initiatives.

The State Manager will work closely with volunteers, local sport providers, schools, and disability organisations to increase access to sport for people with intellectual disability. The role will also support club development, coach training, and the delivery of key events such as the State Games and the Special Olympics National Games.

About You

You’re a confident, people-focused leader who thrives in community sport and is passionate about inclusion. You bring a mix of project management, stakeholder engagement, and hands-on delivery experience, ideally in sport, disability or health promotion sectors.

Key Responsibilities

Coordinate and grow inclusive sports programs and competitions across South Australia

Lead state-level delivery of Special Olympics Australia programs in clubs, schools, and community settings

Build and maintain strong relationships with volunteers, State Sporting Organisations (SSOs), community partners, and local government

Support delivery of competitions, including local events and State Games

Oversee grant-funded programs and ensure reporting requirements are met

Lead, mentor, and support state-based staff and volunteers

Represent Special Olympics Australia at meetings, events, and forums

Promote a strong culture of collaboration, inclusion, and athlete-centred practice

Essential Requirements

Relevant Tertiary Qualification

Working with Children / Working with Vulnerable People Check

Experience building and maintaining effective relationships with a range of volunteers

Experience working with key sport partners and stakeholders to deliver mutually beneficial outcomes

Experience coordinating sport and physical activity programs in a variety of formats and settings

Experience in planning, project management and/or community program delivery

Experience working as part of a team with a proven record of creating positive organisational culture

Demonstrated leadership and experience working autonomously and in a fast-paced environment

Demonstrated ability to work under pressure, and to plan, prioritise and organise to meet deadlines

Demonstrated understanding of appropriate behaviours when engaging with children or vulnerable adults

Strong alignment with Special Olympics Australia’s Vision and Mission

Desirable Criteria

Knowledge and understanding of the disability sector and issues facing people with intellectual disability

Knowledge and understanding of the Australian sporting landscape.

Knowledge and understanding of the Special Olympics General Rules and competition pathways

Understanding of the workings of not-for-profit and/or national disability sporting organisations

Experience in membership organisations and an understanding of federated or matrixed organisations

Application Instructions:

Submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your suitability for the role to apply.

Applications close: Sunday, 20 July 2025