How to Become A Leisure Planner

Steps to Become a Leisure Planner

Step 1: Complete the Diploma of Sport, Aquatics and Recreation Management (SIS50122)

Enrol in the Diploma of Sport, Aquatics and Recreation Management (SIS50122) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This takes 1–2 years full-time. It covers program design, facility management, community work, and budgeting. It is the most direct pathway into leisure planning roles in Australia.

Step 2: Build hands-on experience through internship or volunteering

Seek a placement with a local council, community centre, or recreation facility while you study or soon after you finish. Even 3–6 months of hands-on work helps you apply your skills in a real setting. Look for roles such as recreation assistant or activities coordinator to get started.

Step 3: Apply for junior recreation roles

Once you have your diploma, apply for junior positions. Good options include recreation officer, activities coordinator, or leisure programs officer. These roles are common in local councils and community services groups. They give you the grounding needed for senior planning work.

Step 4: Join Parks and Leisure Australia

Become a member of Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA), the peak industry body for recreation workers. Membership gives you access to professional growth events, networking, and industry resources. The PLA Continuing Professional Learning Program (CPLP) keeps your skills current as your career grows.

Step 5: Consider a bachelor’s degree for senior roles

For senior positions, a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management or Exercise Science helps. Most degrees take 3 years full-time at a university. A degree is common for those moving into policy, strategy, or leadership roles in local government or large groups.

On any given day, a Leisure Planner might research community needs or plan an upcoming event. They pitch programs to councils, manage budgets, and run activities for all ages. They work with schools, local businesses, and community groups to design fun and inclusive programs. Gathering feedback and improving services over time is also a big part of the role.

A Leisure Planner creates events and programs that bring communities together. They combine creativity, organisation, and a passion for people to deliver activities that improve quality of life.

• Client and community consultation: meet with community members to understand their needs and ideas.
• Event planning: organise festivals, workshops, sports days, and recreational activities.
• Budget management: develop and track budgets for events and ongoing programs.
• Marketing and promotion: create content and campaigns to attract participants.
• Stakeholder collaboration: work with councils, businesses, and community groups to improve offerings.
• Program evaluation: use feedback and data to measure success and plan improvements.
• Resource management: source venues, equipment, and staff for events.
• Community engagement: build relationships with residents to drive participation.
• Trend research: follow industry trends to keep programs fresh and appealing.
• Safety compliance: ensure all activities meet relevant safety regulations and permit requirements.

• Organisational and time management skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Creative program design
• Budget planning and financial management
• Project coordination and event management
• Community needs assessment
• Marketing and community outreach
• Knowledge of safety regulations and permit requirements
• Stakeholder engagement and negotiation
• Data analysis and program evaluation
• Team leadership and collaboration
• Flexibility and problem-solving
• Customer service orientation
• Knowledge of recreation planning software and tools
• Passion for health, wellbeing, and community engagement