Special Olympics Australia is a not-for-profit organisation that provides regular sports training, competition opportunities, and development programs for people with an intellectual disability across Australia.

Description of volunteer role

The State Committee for each State or Territory is a key part of Special Olympics’ activities in their state or territory and has an important role in the implementation of Special Olympics Australia’s operations and achievement of its mission by working closely with the local Clubs. Special Olympics has an objective to strive for best practice in all aspects of its operations and is committed to providing an inclusive, fun, and safe environment for athletes, volunteers, families, staff, and the wider community.

The Chair is responsible for providing leadership and guidance to ensure the committee is able to deliver on agreed objectives and outcomes. This role ideally suits someone who can foster an encouraging environment where all committee members can operate effectively and productively.

The ideal candidate will have business or leadership experience and strong relationship building skills as well as previous experience in a similar role.

Key Responsibilities

• Preside as Chair at State Committee meetings
• Act as the primary conduit between National Office and local clubs
• Deliver on the responsibilities outlined in the Terms of Reference and ensure alignment with the current Special Olympics Australia strategic goals
• Provide direction and leadership to the state committee and members
• Represent the state committee to external parties as required

Key Tasks

Games and Competition

• Coordinate, fund and deliver multi-sport State Games in partnership with the State Coordinators, including budget management with Central Office oversight and approval.
• Complete State selections in accordance with national selection policies. This can be done by forming a selection sub-committee or by appointing an independent Chair to oversee selections by the state committee.
• Undertake the endorsement process of athletes and officials for National Games in line with the national selection policy;

Sport

• Plan, implement, and maintain the annual State sporting calendar by the December of each year, in conjunction with Clubs.
• Appoint and meet with State Coordinators at least twice a year.
• Ensure adherence to a consistent competition landscape and standardised approach in line with Special Olympics Australia policies.
• Encourage and actively promote coach development and education.
• Keep up to date with the official sport's rules of Special Olympics (Article 1 sports rules).

Clubs

• Support the network of Clubs to deliver grassroots Special Olympics Australia programs.
• Meet with Club Chairs, or their nominee, at least twice a year to update on Special Olympics initiatives and programs and to review Club status regarding athlete recruitment, retention, and experience (one of those Club meetings to include an AGM to re-elect State Committee members).

Please send your resume and a cover letter (no longer than 1 page) detailing your experience, suitability, and availability for this position by emailing us at hrvolunteer@specialolympics.com.au

Please note that if you do not include these documents, your application shall not be considered.