We are seeking applications for a temporary relieving principal candidates for the Far North Queensland region that are available for short term (Levels 3-10) opportunities during the 2026 school year.

If you are an experienced school leader and you’re attracted to the school leadership relief opportunities that Far North Queensland state schools can offer, please apply.

Applications will be reviewed and considered throughout 2026, when Principal vacancies are identified. The positions may range in duration up to a school semester.

Job details

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

Cairns and Surrounding Area

Cairns is where career ambition meets tropical serenity. As a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest, it offers principals a rare balance of professional challenge and lifestyle ease. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, diverse dining, and a strong principal network that supports leadership growth. With direct non-stop flights to 38 destinations across 9 countries, Cairns connects you to the world, while giving you every reason to stay.

Port Douglas and Mossman Area

This coastal paradise is ideal for leaders who value community connection and natural beauty. On the doorstep of the Daintree National Park, schools here are deeply embedded in their local culture, offering principals the chance to make meaningful impact while enjoying a laid-back lifestyle framed by beaches, markets, and the Ancient Rainforest older than the Amazon.

Babinda and Innisfail Area

For those seeking the “real tropics”, Babinda and Innisfail deliver. These towns offer strong school communities, opportunities for leadership development, and a serene setting surrounded by rivers, creeks, waterfalls, as well as hiking through lush rainforest, perfect for recharging after the school bell rings.

Kuranda and Atherton Tablelands Area

Elevated living, literally and figuratively. Principals in the Tablelands enjoy cooler climates, close-knit communities, and schools that value innovation and inclusion. With weekend access to artisan villages, local coffee, mango, paw-paw and avocado farms (to name a few), crater lakes, rainforest and hiking trails, it's a rewarding place to lead and live.

Everywhere Else in the Far North Queensland region

From Cape York to the Gulf Savannah and the Torres Strait Islands, Far North Queensland is dotted with schools that offer unique challenges and unforgettable experiences. Relief principals here gain exposure to diverse communities, remote leadership, and the chance to grow professionally while discovering Australia's most untouched landscapes.

If you would like to be considered as a relief/ beginning principal in smaller schools, then don't apply here, please refer to the Department's  Beginning Principal program Level 1-2 External link and the Aspiring Principal program External link 

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

Interested? To Apply:

• A brief resume (maximum 2 pages) including contact details for 2 referees (one of whom should be your current supervisor).
• Download and complete the Supervisor Endorsement Form, attach to your application. 
• Download and complete the Location Questions form, attach to your application. 
• Complete your responses to the online questionnaire (the questionnaire will open after you have clicked apply and entered your personal details.

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.

• FNR669714_25E - Principal Levels 3-7 Role Description (PDF, 324KB)
  Role Description
  
  FNR669714_25E - Principal Levels 8-10 Role Description (PDF, 326KB)
  Role Description
  
  Applicant Information Package (PDF, 245KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  Supervisor Endorsement Form attach to application (Word, 369KB)
  Other Advertising Requests
  
  Location Questions to attach to your application (Word, 22KB)
  Other Advertising Requests