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, sound professional judgement, and a commitment to student wellbeing are essential.

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 their potential and thrive in a supportive school environment, we encourage you to apply.

About us

Western Cape College Boarding Campus is located in Weipa, Far North Queensland, and provides a protected 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.

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.

About the Role

As the Guidance Officer, you will:

- Provide individualised wellbeing, counselling and guidance support to students experiencing social, emotional, behavioural, family, cultural or educational challenges.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with students and provide culturally responsive, trauma-informed and strengths-based support.
- Work collaboratively with students, families, boarding staff, school staff and external agencies to coordinate appropriate wellbeing and support strategies.
- Contribute to student wellbeing triage, case management, referrals and support planning, including follow-up for students returning from hardship or extended leave.




- Support students to develop resilience, self-regulation, positive relationships, decision-making and life skills.
- Assist students with engagement, transitions, pathways and future planning, including education, employment and independent living.

About you

- 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.
- 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.

Why Western Cape College?

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

What We Offer

- Opportunity to live and work in a stunning and culturally rich region of Far North Queensland.
- Competitive salary and allowances, including remote area allowance, relocation assistance, and subsidised housing
- Supportive leadership, strong community ties, and diverse learners.
- The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people from diverse backgrounds.

Please refer to the attached role description for any mandatory requirements for this position.

How to apply

- Please submit a brief resume including contact details for 2 referees (referees should have an understanding of your relevant work history); and
- A 1-page written statement in response to the attached role description.

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive. Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department.

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

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