Culture & Connections Mentor – SALP

Status: Full-Time

The contract is valid until the end of the current funding period.

Salary Level: Level 3-4 (increment level negotiated based on skills and experience)

Award: Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Award

Location: Townsville, Queensland

About the Role

This role is central to implementing the Culture & Connection pillar of the Specialised Alternative Learning Program (SALP), and supports the cultural safety, identity development, and relational learning of young people engaged in the program.

There is a strong focus on demonstrated, lived experience with First Nations culture as well as demonstrated experience working in alternative learning and educational settings. While this is not an identified role, culturally responsive practice is essential to its success.

Working closely with a cultural activity provider, the Officer will help create a culturally safe and inclusive learning environment and support activities such as yarning circles, cultural mapping, storytelling, and celebration events. The position also supports young people's connections to family, kin, community, and place of origin—helping to strengthen their sense of identity and belonging.

About the Work

Depending on skills and experience, responsibilities include:

Cultural & Community Program Support

Liaise regularly with the chosen cultural activity provider to support planning and delivery

Assist with facilitation of yarning circles, cultural sessions, storytelling, and family events

Help uphold cultural safety, protocols, and respectful practices

Gradually build confidence and competence to co-facilitate sessions

Contribute to activities that support cultural identity, healing, and belonging

Youth, Family & Social Connection

Build trusting relationships with participants through culturally sensitive and relational practice

Facilitate and support connections to family, community, and place of origin

Assist in welcoming and engaging families and caregivers in program life

Maintain strong communication with Elders, cultural leaders, and guest facilitators

Provide one-on-one and group-based support across program activities

Program Participation & Teamwork

Support a trauma-aware, strengths-based team culture

Contribute to the setup and coordination of program spaces and events

Attend team meetings, supervision, and reflective practice sessions

Participate in daily program routines including shared meals and check-ins

Assist with informal feedback, storytelling, and documentation of young people’s journeys

About You

Reports to: Flexible Learning and Pathways Lead

Works closely with:

Chosen cultural activity provider

Youth Workers

Trade Mentors

Visiting Elders and facilitators

Families and community members

Essential Requirements

Understanding of cultural safety and respectful practice with First Nations communities

Experience supporting young people in community, mentoring, or educational contexts

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Willingness to learn and grow in cultural facilitation alongside the delivery partner

Team-oriented and adaptable in a dynamic, youth-centred environment

Current QLD Working with Children Blue Card (or willingness to obtain)

Current QLD Driver’s Licence

Highly Regarded

Lived cultural experience and/or strong community connections

Familiarity with yarning circles, cultural storytelling, or identity-based facilitation

Qualifications (formal or community-based) in youth work, cultural arts, Indigenous studies, or related fields

Completion of cultural competency or trauma-informed care

Why Join QYS?

Diverse and rewarding opportunities to make a real difference

Supportive and values-driven team culture

Flexible, community-based work

Ongoing training and professional development

How to Apply

To express your interest, please submit:

A current resume

A cover letter addressing the key selection criteria (no more than 2 pages)

Applications close:31 October 2025 5:00pm

For any enquiries or requests for further information regarding the position,

please contact us at: [email protected]

For more information or a confidential conversation,

contact: Clynt Connor 07 4410 9375