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Executive Director
Woodford Youth Detention Centre; Youth Detention Operations; Youth Justice; Brisbane City/Woodford
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 and commission and staff 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 350 FTE.
Job details
| Position status | Contract |
|---|---|
| Position type | Full-time |
| Occupational group | Executive |
| Classification | SES2(H) |
| Workplace Location | Brisbane Inner City |
| Job ad reference | QLD/699990/26 |
| Closing date | 17-Sep-2026 |
| Job duration | 6 months (possible extension) |
| Contact person | Joel Moat |
| Contact details | Mobile: 0436 660 727 Access the National Relay Service |
About the Role:
The Executive Director will lead the Woodford Youth Detention Centre through a phased establishment, commissioning and operationalisation program leading to service commencement. During the construction and establishment phase, the role will focus on workforce establishment, organisational readiness, operating model implementation, commissioning activities and operational preparedness. The role will provide strategic leadership to the centre's emerging executive and management structure, including the Deputy Director Operations, Deputy Director Client Services and broader leadership team, building leadership capability, organisational culture and workforce readiness while guiding the centre through establishment, commissioning and operationalisation.
To support these activities, the Executive Director will oversee the Program Director and project team responsible for coordinating workforce readiness, recruitment, organisational readiness and commissioning initiatives. The Executive Director will maintain strategic oversight and accountability for readiness outcomes while partnering with the Department of Housing and Public Works (DHPW) and other stakeholders to ensure the centre is prepared for operationalisation.
Key Priorities for 2026-2027: Establishment and Readiness
- Workforce establishment and recruitment.
- Operating model development and implementation.
- Organisational readiness and governance implementation.
- Commissioning planning and readiness preparation.
- Operational input into construction completion activities.
About the Centre:
The new youth detention centre situated in Woodford, Moreton Bay will feature a contemporary design that supports rehabilitation and enhances community safety.
Key features include:
- 112 beds, split across two 56-bed campuses with shared facilities
- Smaller, home-like accommodation units (8 or fewer beds per unit) to foster collaboration between youth, 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
Reports to: Senior Executive Director, Youth Detention Operations
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.
