🌟 Lead a Groundbreaking New Education Program in Cairns!
Principal – Justice for Youth Academy (Cairns)
Ohana for Youth & 54 reasons – Empowering Young People, Changing Futures

Be part of something truly transformative.

Ohana for Youth, in partnership with 54 reasons (part of Save the Children Australia), is establishing the Justice for Youth Academy – Cairns, a government-funded, trauma-informed, alternative education program designed to re-engage young people involved in the Youth Justice system through education, wellbeing, and pathways to training and employment.

This is a unique leadership opportunity to establish and lead a pioneering school that changes the trajectory for high-risk youth, embedding cultural safety, restorative practice, and inclusive education from the ground up.

🌱 About the Program

The Justice for Youth Academy will deliver a project-based, trauma-informed curriculum supported by intensive case management, mentoring, and wellbeing services.
Students aged 12–17 on youth justice orders (including community service, bail, or diversion programs) will receive structured daily supervision combined with education and wraparound supports to help them re-engage, heal, and thrive.

Ohana for Youth currently educates over 900 young people across two highly successful Special Assistance Schools — Ohana College (Logan) and Arcadia College (Gold Coast) — and is now expanding this proven model to North Queensland.

Note: The facility for the Cairns Academy is currently being secured; the location will be within the Cairns region.

🎓 The Opportunity – School Principal

We’re seeking a dynamic, visionary, and hands-on Principal to lead the establishment and operation of this innovative new school. You will provide strategic and operational leadership, establishing a safe, inclusive, culturally grounded, and empowering learning environment.

As Principal, you will:

Lead the establishment, design, and continuous improvement of the Academy’s educational model tailored to justice-involved youth

Ensure programs align with trauma-informed, restorative, and culturally responsive practices

Build and sustain strong partnerships with First Nations communities, Elders, families, government departments, and external stakeholders

Oversee staffing, budgets, timetabling, compliance, and operational matters, including Youth Justice obligations

Lead the development of high-quality teaching, learning, and wellbeing outcomes for students

Champion staff development, wellbeing, and performance through a culture of trust and accountability

Represent the Academy in policy, advocacy, and community forums

🧭 About You

You are an inspiring, ethical, and strategic leader who thrives in dynamic, purpose-driven environments. You will have:

Mandatory:

Masters Degree in Education (or equivalent) with current Queensland College of Teachers registration

Demonstrated leadership in alternative or flexible learning settings

Strong knowledge of trauma-informed and restorative education practices

Understanding of issues affecting justice-involved youth and families in Cairns

Proven experience engaging effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

Current Blue Card, driver’s licence, and ability to obtain a National Police Check

Desirable:

Experience establishing or transforming an educational program or school

Qualifications or experience in mental health, Indigenous studies, or community development

Familiarity with Queensland education policy, NSSAB, and independent school frameworks

You will be measured on:

Measurable literacy and numeracy improvement

Attendance, engagement, and reduced youth recidivism

Effective management of Individual Support Plans and critical incidents

Strong student and staff wellbeing outcomes

💰 Remuneration and Benefits

$170,000 base salary

Car and fuel card included

PBI Benefit: Salary packaging through SPA with charity not-for-profit status (Take Home More, Pay Less Tax)

Outstanding mentoring and professional development opportunities

Very competitive salaries and excellent working conditions

Employee Assistance Program available for staff and families

Fitness Passport access for all employees

📌 Application Requirements

Applicants must provide:

Cover letter and resume outlining leadership experience, vision for alternative education, and commitment to supporting high-risk youth

Names and contact details of at least three professional references

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants to apply.

🌏 About Ohana for Youth & 54 reasons

Ohana for Youth is a Gold Coast-based not-for-profit organisation dedicated to reconnecting young people with education, training, and community.
54 reasons, part of Save the Children Australia, is a leading child rights organisation delivering evidence-based programs to help children and young people thrive.

Together, we are creating a school where education, wellbeing, and community come together to reduce reoffending and build brighter futures for young people in Cairns.

📍 Location: Cairns, QLD

🕓 Commencing: 2026 (preparatory leadership work to commence earlier)