In today’s competitive job market, finding the right pathway to build a sustainable career can feel overwhelming. While traditional routes like university are often promoted, a traineeship offers a unique opportunity to earn while you learn, gain practical experience, and set yourself up for long-term success. Some people might hesitate at the idea of receiving a training wage for a year, but that modest wage can be a smart investment in your future. By the end of the program, you’ll have experience, skills and industry connections that are far more valuable than a Paycheque alone.
[Photo: Carla Gardiner]
Earn While You Learn
AFL SportsReady traineeships provide a rare opportunity to build your career while receiving an award training wage. Unlike unpaid internships or casual work with limited prospects, a traineeship gives you a meaningful role in the workforce, backed by a nationally recognised qualification.
For 12 months, you’ll be immersed in a real work environment, gaining hands-on experience while working toward a Certificate III or IV. Whether your passion lies in sport, education, business, or community work, traineeships allow you to explore different industries while developing skills that employers value.
A Year that Pays Off
While the wage may feel like an initial step down compared to some entry-level jobs, the experience you gain through a traineeship puts you ahead of others in the long run. It’s important to think of the training wage not as a sacrifice, but as part of an investment that will open doors for years to come.
By the time your traineeship finishes, you’ll have both qualifications and practical knowledge under your belt. Some Trainees transition into permanent roles with their host employers because they’ve already proven themselves capable. Others move into new opportunities with the confidence that only real-world experience can provide.
Take the success stories of AFL SportsReady alumni like Carla Gardiner, who started as a Commercial Partnerships Trainee at the AFL and transitioned into a full-time role as a Partnerships Account Coordinator.
Likewise, Shieyanne ‘Shy’ Copley-Morgan, proud Larrakia woman, began her journey as a Business Admin Trainee at QinetiQ and has continued to grow and succeed there—demonstrating how a traineeship can open doors to personal and professional development.
The Path to a Full-Time Career
A traineeship with AFL SportsReady is about more than completing daily tasks—it’s about laying the groundwork for a fulfilling career. You’ll learn valuable skills, from time management to teamwork and build a professional network that will continue to support you even after your traineeship ends.
In many cases, traineeships result in permanent roles. Employers often prefer to hire someone they’ve already trained and trust, making the transition from trainee to employee seamless. Even if a full-time position isn’t immediately available, you’ll leave with professional references, industry contacts and a qualification that sets you apart.
Christiaan Van Peppen, for example, started as a Sports Department Trainee at Coomera Anglican College and used his experience to start a career in education. Others, like Charlotte Byron with the Brisbane Lions, discovered their passion within the sports industry.
It’s an Investment in You
The skills and relationships you build during a traineeship will benefit you far beyond the year-long program. You’ll grow personally and professionally, learning to communicate effectively, solve problems and adapt to new challenges. These experiences are not just essential for your career but for life.
Compared to others who may graduate from university without any hands-on experience, you’ll already have a head start. With the right attitude and commitment, your traineeship can become the foundation for a lifelong career path.
Start Your Career Journey Today
An AFL SportsReady traineeship is more than a short-term job—it’s the first step toward building a meaningful career. By the end of the program, you’ll have the experience, qualifications, and professional network to take your next step with confidence.
Don’t let a modest wage hold you back from an opportunity that could change your life.
If you’re ready to invest in yourself and fast-track your career, consider applying for an AFL SportsReady traineeship today. The experience you gain could be the key to unlocking your future.
WHAT ARE TRAINEESHIPS?
A paid, employment and education training program that gives you a nationally recognised qualification. They are usually full-time, but can also be part-time or school-based. To find out more and a place to submit an expression of interest click this link.
Are you a recent high school graduate unsure about your path for the upcoming year? AFL SportsReady is calling for expressions of interest from individuals like you who are eager to secure a traineeship. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop valuable skills, and kickstart your career journey.
Don’t miss this chance to shape your future – express your interest in a traineeship now!
