Athletics Coach Accreditation Framework 

On the 1st April 2008, Athletics Australia together with the Australian Track and Field Coaches Association announced the commencement of the Athletics Coach Accreditation Framework.

As part of the Framework, coaches will only be eligible for accreditation if they meet the following requirements:

1.  Demonstrated coaching competence
2.  Agreement to the provisions of the Member Protection Declaration
3.  Agreement to abide by the code of ethics
4.  Membership of either Athletics Australia through its member associations OR the ATFCA

Coaches who meet this criteria and who apply will be known as accredited athletics coaches and receive a card to verify their accreditation.

Athletics Australia, its member associations, the ATFCA and the Australian Sports Commission through the National Coach Accreditation Scheme, will only recognise accredited athletics coaches as ‘qualified coaches’ within the sport of athletics.  Clubs, schools and all associated organisations will be encouraged to engage the services of only accredited athletics coaches. Organisations who engage the services of individuals who are not accredited athletics coaches cannot guarantee the competence of the individual and may be exposed to various risks associated with that individual's practice.

The accredited athletics coach is designed to enhance the recognition and expertise of coaches by acknowledging they have met the minimum requirements of what is expected of an athletics coach.

The accredited athletics coach will also provide for parents and athletes, a clear indication of who is qualified to coach and who is not.  Only accredited athletics coaches will be recognised as qualified and approved coaches in the sport of Athletics.

To apply to become an accredited athletics coach, click here.