THE AFL is pleased to announce the second edition of Workplay powered by John Holland, the industry-first careers platform that connects AFLW players with flexible employment, career and educational resources, has relaunched with more opportunities for players and women in sport.
In a week that celebrates female football excellence, the enhanced Workplay platform will see even more flexible employment opportunities available to players, with valued AFL and AFLW partners John Holland, Rebel, Foxtel Group, NAB, Cotton On, and Telstra a part of the industry-first program.
Launched in 2021, the industry-first platform has grown in the last 12 months to further advance the opportunities for W players to thrive, with access to Workplay now extended to the AFL's 18 clubs and their partners, providing players even more support and development both on and off the field.
David Lehmann, John Holland's Executive General Manager of Building and Development is excited about the new-look platform.
"The relaunch of Workplay marks an exciting new phase for our partnership with the AFLW. As Workplay's Presenting Partner, we are thrilled to support almost 600 talented players having access to rewarding and flexible career opportunities through John Holland and other AFLW/AFL partners.
"Workplay has unlocked a unique opportunity for our business to attract, develop and retain top female talent in the construction industry."
The relaunched website has been improved for a better user experience and provides greater accessibility and a more structured process for organisations to share and promote their current flexible vacancies.
Engagement with player development managers at all 18 clubs has enabled increased player registration and access to career opportunities and resources, as well as integration into the post-season meetings so players can start seeking roles that work for them and their offseason commitments.
AFL General Manager of Women's Football, Nicole Livingstone, said Workplay is crucial to providing female athletes with the tools to succeed.
"The challenges facing female athletes across codes globally are consistent – having to balance work, study, family, and sporting commitments – and through Workplay, we are playing our role in the creation of long-term, sustainable career pathways for women and girls in their chosen fields.
"Our aim is to create as many flexible working opportunities as possible for athletes through our vast network of organisations – in turn empowering them directly to pursue truly flexible employment, education and career development."
Workplay has already enabled successful placements for five AFLW Players, including Gold Coast Suns' Tara Bohanna, who landed a role at John Holland as a Group Safety Coordinator.
"Women athletes should be empowered to be their absolute best on and off the field – and that means having access to great career opportunities. Working with John Holland has helped me develop skills and experience in construction and set up an exciting future on projects both big and small. Most importantly, I’ve still got the flexibility I need to train and play my best footy."
Workplay is available to all W athletes in a bid to provide ongoing support regardless of whether they are currently playing or transitioning back into the workforce. Together, with the help of AFLW and AFL partners, Workplay is reimagining the future of women’s sport.
