This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of youth detention service delivery in Queensland and to help deliver real and enduring outcomes for youth offenders.

We are seeking a highly skilled, innovative and experienced strategic leader to establish, commission and operate the Woodford Youth Detention Centre (WYDC). WYDC is a new 112 bed facility currently under construction, with the staged opening scheduled to commence in late 2027.

The Executive Director will lead a multi-disciplinary and diverse workforce of over 400 FTE.

Job details

About the role

WYDC will form part of Queensland's a state-wide youth detention network and operate under the leadership of the Senior Executive Director, Youth Detention Operations. The successful applicant will work collaboratively with Executive Directors of existing Youth Detention Centers (YDCs) and key interdepartmental stakeholders to establish and deliver a shared vision focused on responsive and contemporary services for all youths in detention. This includes ensuring alignment with the Queensland Government's objectives and commitments.

Situated in Woodford, Moreton Bay, the centre is well-connected to Brisbane and surrounding areas via major highways and public transport, making it accessible for families, staff and services. While only an hour's drive from Brisbane, it's rural setting offers a focused environment on rehabilitation with minimal disruption to surrounding communities.

About the Centre

The new youth detention centre at Woodford will feature a contemporary design that supports rehabilitation and enhances community safety.

Key features include:

• 80 beds, split across two 40-bed campuses with shared facilities
• Smaller, home-like accommodation units (8 or fewer beds per unit) to foster collaboration between young people, staff, and stakeholders
• Consultation and treatment rooms
• Multipurpose spaces for education, skills development, and training
• Areas for physical activity and green spaces
• Dedicated spaces for cultural connection, faith, and spiritual support

Key Responsibliities:

As the Executive Director, you will specifically:

• Lead and implement critical project activities to support the construction, commissioning, and operationalising of the centre.
• Work in close collaboration with the Managing Contractor, government departments, Traditional Owners and other internal and external stakeholders to ensure the build and operating model is aligned with the Queensland Government priorities.
• Ensure the build and furnishings, fixtures and equipment are fit for purpose, will maintain the safety and security of the centre and support rehabilitation for young people.
• Manage the recruitment and selection activities for a range of roles for the centre and ensure the early onboarding of staff to support commissioning activities.

Once the centre is opened, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership in the provision of youth detention operations, and ensure the safety and security of young people, staff and visitors.
• Lead and deliver innovative practices that focus on young people's rehabilitative needs and are aligned with key government priorities, legislation, policies and procedures.

As an executive your performance will be assessed according to four key accountability perspectives: financial, stakeholder and outcome, internal business, and learning and growth.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference:  QLD/663039/25

Closing Date:  Tuesday, 14^th October 2025

Further information

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

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

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

• 663039-25-Role Profile (Word, 176KB)