Job Description

Guidance Officer – Western Cape College – Residential Centre n

Queensland Department of Education – Cairns QLD

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We are seeking a compassionate, experienced and student-focused Guidance Officer to join our team and provide high-quality support to students across academic, social, emotional and wellbeing needs. Strong communication, interpersonal and organisational skills, soundprofessional judgement, and a commitment to student wellbeing are essential.

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This is a temporary full-time position commencing 27 January 2027 until 10 December 2027, unless otherwise determined. If you are passionate about helping young people reach theirpotential and thrive in a supportive school environment, we encourage you to apply.

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About us

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Western Cape College Boarding Campus is located in Weipa, Far North Queensland, and provides a safe and supportive "home away from home" for 70 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from Cape York Peninsula and the Torres Strait Islands. We are committed to creating a positive, culturally safe and inclusive environment where students can grow socially, personally and academically.

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We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Guidance Officer to join our boarding team. Working within a 24/7 boarding environment, the Guidance Officer will make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people by providing wellbeing support, strengthening engagement and helping students navigate the challenges of living away from home.

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About the Role

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As the Guidance Officer, you will:

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- Provide individualised wellbeing, counselling and guidance support to students experiencing social, emotional, behavioural, family, cultural or educational challenges.
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- Build positive, trusting relationships with students and provide culturally responsive, trauma-informed and strengths-based support.
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- Work collaboratively with students, families, boarding staff, school staff and external agencies to coordinate appropriate wellbeing and support strategies.
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- Contribute to student wellbeing triage,



case management, referrals and support planning, including follow-up for students returning from hardship or extended leave.
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- Support students to develop resilience, self-regulation, positive relationships, decision-making and life skills.
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- Assist students with engagement, transitions, pathways and future planning, including education, employment and independent living.
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About you

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- Strong interpersonal, communication and relationship-building skills, with a commitment to culturally responsive practice when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, families and communities.
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- The ability to work collaboratively and independently in a remote environment, with sound professional judgement, confidentiality, case management skills and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for young people.
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Why Western Cape College?

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- Teach where your impact matters every day
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- Stunning beaches, fishing, and outback adventures at your doorstep
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- Join a welcoming, culturally rich town where work-life balance thrives.
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- Live and work in a friendly town where people look out for each other.
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- Spend weekends exploring beaches, waterfalls, and Cape York's natural beauty.
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What We Offer

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- Prospect to live and work in a stunning and culturally rich region of Far North Queensland.
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- Market-competitive salary and allowances, including remote area allowance, relocation assistance, and subsidised housing
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- Supportive leadership, strong community ties, and diverse learners.
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- The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people from diverse backgrounds.
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Please refer to the attached role description for any mandatory requirements for this position.

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We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive.

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Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department.

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Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

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📌 Guidance Officer - Western Cape College - Residential Centre (Cairns Regional)
🏢 Queensland Department of Education
📍 Cairns Regional