Head Physiotherapist, NSW Swifts

About Netball NSW and NSW Swifts

Netball NSW is a not-for-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors, dedicated to the comprehensive governance, development, promotion, and administration of netball across New South Wales. Supporting around 119,000 registered members and over 150,000 participants at multiple levels, Netball NSW drives the sport's growth through diverse programs and facilities, from grassroots to professional tiers. Affiliated with Netball Australia, it boasts a rich history of elite athlete development, with over 300 athletes representing the state since 1997, including participation in the elite Suncorp Super Netball league.

The NSW Swifts, owned by Netball NSW, stand as one of Australia's premier professional women's sporting clubs, established in 1997. The club holds a record seven premiership titles and 13 Grand Final appearances, feeding into a statewide network supporting more than 115,000 netball participants. The Swifts emphasize elite performance, talent cultivation, successful outcomes, athlete-centered culture, and the advancement of women's sport.

Role Purpose

The Head Physiotherapist will spearhead physiotherapy services, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and return-to-play initiatives for NSW Swifts athletes throughout the Suncorp Super Netball season. Collaborating within the High-Performance team, the role ensures evidence-based athlete care, working with coaches, medical staff, and performance personnel to optimize athlete health, availability, and competitive success.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with strength and conditioning coaches and physical preparation staff to design and implement integrated athlete preparation plans.
• Collaborate closely with the Coaching Panel and High-Performance Team to develop a holistic, athlete-focused program.
• Lead effective utilization and reporting of Athlete Management System (AMS) to inform monitoring and decisions.
• Work with medical and strength teams to maximize athlete readiness through injury prevention, return-to-play planning, and minimizing injury recurrence.
• Develop and supervise long-term rehabilitation for injured athletes.
• Manage match-day physical preparation and recovery to ensure competition readiness.
• Conduct athlete screenings, physical assessments, and injury risk evaluations as required.
• Coordinate procurement and maintenance of essential physiotherapy and medical equipment.
• Maintain comprehensive, confidential clinical records according to professional and organizational standards.
• Lead the medical governance of the QBE Swifts Academy Medical Program, aligning standards with the NSW Swifts.
• Mentor and guide the Academy Physiotherapist through supervision and professional development.
• Deliver thorough physiotherapy assessments, treatments, and rehabilitation supporting athlete performance.
• Facilitate athlete consultations in alignment with team schedules and travel, primarily based at Netball Central.
• Provide match-day services including warm-ups, strapping, taping, recovery treatments, and massages as needed.
• Monitor injury progression and rehabilitation adherence, initiating post-injury protocols in coordination with the Team Doctor.
• Attend training sessions, matches, and strength & conditioning sessions as agreed.
• Participate in weekly High Performance team meetings and recovery sessions.
• Regularly update Head Coach and High-Performance Manager on athlete health and rehabilitation status.
• Ensure clinical leadership over Academy Physiotherapist including workload management and performance feedback.
• Maintain strong collaboration and reporting among medical staff, including national/international personnel for athlete continuity of care.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and contribute to strategic medical and performance planning.
• Advocate and practice Netball NSW values, policies, and standards.
• Contribute positively to organizational culture, maintain professional registration, and comply with work health, safety, and safeguarding standards.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned by NSW Swifts Head Coach or High-Performance Manager.

Selection Criteria

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• University-level qualification in Physiotherapy.
• Current registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
• Valid First Aid and CPR certifications.
• Proven track record within elite or high-performance sports settings.
• Experience managing groups of elite athletes and developing injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols.

Desirable Attributes:

• Background in professional team sports environments.
• Experience in leading or mentoring physiotherapy or sports medicine personnel.
• Familiarity with athlete management and performance monitoring software systems.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Comprehensive understanding of elite sports culture and athlete management.
• Strong organizational skills to manage competing priorities.
• Advanced clinical decision-making and reasoning ability.
• Expertise in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and return-to-play strategies.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, and travel.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build trusted relationships with athletes and staff.

Personal Qualities:

• Leadership capability and people management skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and problem-solving aptitude.
• Service-oriented and athlete-centered mindset.
• Dedication to workplace safety and clinical governance.
• Resilience and adaptability within a dynamic, high-performance environment.
• Passion for elite sport with willingness to engage beyond basic role requirements.
• Alignment with the values and culture of Netball NSW.
• Preparedness for flexible, extended hours typical of professional sports contexts.

Additional Information

A valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) clearance is required before employment, with selection contingent on clearance and reference checks. Netball NSW is an equal opportunity employer welcoming applicants from diverse communities including Indigenous peoples, culturally diverse groups, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and underrepresented groups. Candidates must hold a valid driver's license.