About us: This long-standing community services organisation supports people right across Central Queensland, from city centres to some of the most rural and remote parts of the region. For decades, they've delivered a wide range of programs. Spanning child protection, family and youth support, mental health, and homelessness services; while always staying grounded in the values of dignity, choice, and cultural respect. Their team is made up of locals who genuinely understand the needs of their communities and are passionate about creating positive change.
Alongside frontline programs, the organisation manages large numbers of properties to provide both crisis accommodation and longer-term housing solutions. By working closely with government, community partners, and local networks, they address complex challenges such as housing affordability, disadvantage, and wellbeing. Their commitment is not only to provide essential support today, but also to build stronger, more inclusive communities for the future.
*About the role:*I'm looking for an inspiring leader to take the reins of a Residential and Specialised Support programs, driving high-quality care and growth across these vital services. These programs are designed to walk alongside young people on their journey, whether through therapeutic residential care, extended and post-care support, or tailored individual placements, ensuring that each young person has the opportunity to thrive physically, emotionally, and culturally.
In this role, you will oversee a diverse and passionate team, and together, you'll deliver services that respond to the complex needs of young people in care, grounded in an understanding of trauma, attachment, grief, and child development. You will also play a pivotal role in strengthening relationships with government departments, carers, and community partners, creating pathways that place young people and families at the centre of decision-making.
As Manager, you'll ensure excellence in all aspects of service delivery, You'll oversee compliance, contracts, and accreditation while embedding a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Your leadership will be key in maintaining high standards under the Human Services Quality Framework and Child Protection legislation, while also guiding staff to deliver outcomes that meet contractual and community expectations. With your strategic vision, you will identify opportunities for innovation, prepare funding submissions, and ensure programs remain sustainable and responsive.
This is a unique opportunity to combine operational oversight with genuine impact. By building the business and empowering your team, you will ensure young people in care receive the highest quality support, tailored to their individual journeys. If you are a values-driven leader ready to champion young people and shape services that change lives, we'd love to hear from you.
About you:
* Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Social or Behavioural Sciences (or related field), with at least 5 years' managerial experience in community or child protection services.
* Proven leadership in managing diverse service portfolios, including government relations, funding, compliance, and program growth across multiple locations.
* Strong knowledge of government policies, legal frameworks, and compliance requirements relevant to child protection and community services.
* Contemporary understanding of evidence-based service delivery models, theories, and practices that achieve positive outcomes for participants.
* Demonstrated strategic thinking and the ability to manage competing priorities with initiative, drive, and a strong results orientation.
* Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders and share knowledge effectively within teams.
* Sound financial management capability, with a track record of achieving program sustainability and growth while leading high-performing, cohesive teams.
Additional info:
* Based in Rockhampton OR Gladstone
* Level 8 under SCHADS Award (Plus Super & NFP SPB's)
* Must be eligible to work in Australia, with all relevant employment checks completed (e.g. current Blue Card and Yellow Card).
* Full COVID-19 vaccination and a valid Queensland Open Driver's Licence (or equivalent).
* Willingness to travel as required.
* Relocation assistance can be negotiated upon offer.
Please click APPLY attaching your CV if you'd like to hear more about this role, alternatively you can apply direct to or call Chris on