Purpose

The Sustainability Officer leads Middle Park Football Club's environmental sustainability initiatives and helps embed sustainable practices across club operations, facilities, events and community activities.

The role supports the club's commitment to environmental responsibility while strengthening community engagement, reducing waste, identifying funding opportunities and building partnerships that deliver positive environmental and social outcomes. Sustainability has become an important part of the club's community identity, highlighted through initiatives such as the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS), recycling partnerships and recognition through the Football Victoria 2026 Community Impact Award.

Key Relationships

Reports to: Director of Infrastructure, Development & Government Relations.  Works closely with Committees, Director of Communications & Engagement, Events Coordinator.

Key Responsibilities

• Sustainability Strategy & Leadership
• Lead the development and implementation of the club's sustainability initiatives.
• Support the integration of sustainability objectives into club planning and decision-making.
• Identify practical opportunities to reduce the club's environmental impact.
• Promote environmentally responsible practices across all club activities.
• Assist the Board in identifying and delivering sustainability-related strategic priorities.

Sustainability Programs

• Coordinate and support club sustainability projects and initiatives.
• Oversee ongoing recycling and waste reduction activities.
• Support the operation and promotion of the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) program.
• Identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency, waste management and resource use.
• Encourage participation from players, families and volunteers in sustainability activities.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and maintain sustainability-focused partnerships.
• Work with community organisations, government agencies and industry partners to support sustainability outcomes.
• Build and maintain relationships with environmental organisations and service providers.
• Promote collaboration with other sporting clubs and community groups where beneficial.

Current sustainability partnerships and initiatives include organisations such as VDXTCH, Premier Waste, Recycle Care Australia and Sports Environment Australia. 

Grants & Funding Support

• Identify and help secure grants supporting sustainability projects.
• Assist with the development of funding applications and acquittal requirements.
• Work with the Grants Project Manager to build evidence demonstrating environmental and community impact.
• Monitor emerging grant opportunities relevant to sustainability and facilities improvements.

Education & Community Awareness

• Promote sustainability initiatives through club communications and events.
• Share practical sustainability tips and achievements with members.
• Support awareness campaigns and community education initiatives.
• Encourage environmentally responsible behaviours amongst members, volunteers and visitors.

Sustainability Reporting

• Track participation and outcomes of sustainability initiatives.
• Measure impacts where practical, including recycling, waste diversion and community engagement.
• Provide updates to the Board on sustainability activities and opportunities.
• Support recognition programs, awards and community impact reporting.

Key Deliverables

• Annual sustainability action plan.
• Sustainability partnership register.
• Sustainability grant opportunities and funding pipeline.
• Environmental impact reporting for the Board.
• Community engagement activities and awareness campaigns.
• Support for sustainability-related awards and recognition programs.

Refer to MPFC's Sustainability Vision and Policy, Sustainability Program, Sustainability and Inclusive Events Guidelines.