Seeking expressions of interest for short-term relieving Principal opportunities in Primary and Secondary schools across the South East Region.

This process will be used to backfill future short-term Principal vacancies (maximum of 6 months) that may arise in the South East Region during 2026.

If you are interested in being considered for these opportunities, please apply now by submitting your expression of interest through the designated application process.

Job details

This is open to Expressions of Interest and any extensions to this appointment will not exceed 12 months.   

About this unique opportunity

The Department of Education is seeking applications for short-term Principal opportunities across secondary schools in the South East Region. These temporary appointments may arise throughout 2026 for periods of up to six months.

This is an opportunity to play a vital role in delivering the vision of the School and Regional Operations and Performance Division. Effective principal leadership is critical to improving student outcomes. Principals have a significant influence on the quality of teaching and learning within their schools and on fostering positive relationships among students, staff, and the wider school community.

Please note that backfill arrangements extending beyond six months will be subject to a new recruitment process.

Applicants must confirm that they have discussed their application with their supervisor and that release is supported.

Your role

You will have responsibility for leading the following activities and delivery of the following key tasks:

• Leading the school community to develop, articulate and commit to a shared educational vision focused on providing quality learning outcomes for all students.
• Upholding the principalship as a values based, ethical and moral activity.
• Embed socially just practices in daily school life.
• Set high standards for student and staff performance.
• Actively participate in life long learning and ongoing professional development.

Interested? To Apply 

• A current CV (maximum 3 pages), contact details for two referees (one of whom should be your current supervisor)
• A maximum two-page written response outlining your suitability for the role referring to Key Capabilities 1 - 4 under "How you will be assessed'.

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

Applicants need to be a current Queensland Government employee to be eligible to apply. 

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. 

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

For a full list of the position responsibilities and mandatory requirements, please ensure you download the attached Role Description and Applicant Information Package and follow the instructions.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• Applicant Information Package (PDF, 232KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  SER680073_26E - Role Description - Principal (Levels 8 - Level 10) (PDF, 206KB)
  Role Description
  
  SER680073_26E - Role Description - Principal (Levels 3 - Level 7) (PDF, 204KB)
  Role Description