Principal

Summary

Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) invites experienced, dynamic and visionary leaders to apply for the Principal position at Xavier Catholic College, a thriving Catholic Prep-Year 12 College located in the heart of coastal Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast, Qld.

With a strong reputation for academic excellence, vibrant arts and sports programs, and a deeply embedded Catholic identity, Xavier Catholic College offers an exceptional opportunity to lead a large, high-performing P-12 school community.

• Location: Xavier Catholic College, Hervey Bay, QLD
• Start date: January, 2027
• Status: Full Time Continuing
• Salary: $231,008.00 - $241,850.00 Per Annum + Relocation Assistance + 12.75% Super
• Ad close date: 30th August 2026
• Contact: Sign in to view email

About our school

Xavier Catholic College is a co-educational K-12 College operated by Brisbane Catholic Education that commenced in 2003. In 2013 a two session Kindergarten was established on site and is administered by Catholic Early EdCare. Our Prep to Year 12 enrolments have grown to over 1340 and continues to expand. Our mission for the College is to provide a high-quality, inclusive Catholic education where all are engaged in their learning and motivated to do their best. Explore our school website to learn more about us.

About the opportunity

Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) invites applications for this School Senior Leadership position with the capability to:

• Holistic Education: Enact a Catholic educational philosophy to student learning that integrates spiritual growth and development, academic excellence, and pastoral care and wellbeing.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a supportive and forward-thinking team committed to professional development and innovation.
• Visionary Leadership: Lead a dynamic P–12 Catholic school community that inspires student engagement, strengthens academic achievement, and nurtures wellbeing. As Principal, you will give visible witness to the Catholic faith, shape a sustainable and future-focused culture of learning, and ensure transparent stewardship, accountability, and compliance across all dimensions of school life.

About you

We’re looking for a Catholic school leader with demonstrated experience in guiding and supporting large school communities. To be successful in this position you will bring relevant contemporary skills and experience including:

• A deep commitment to Catholic education, with the ability to lead the religious life of the school and promote a vibrant Catholic identity.
• Proven strategic leadership experience as a Principal, Deputy Principal, or equivalent senior role — experience in a large school setting is highly regarded.
• A dynamic approach to school improvement, staff development, and community engagement, ensuring sustainable stewardship of resources with transparency and accountability.
• Expertise in teaching and curriculum development, with a track record of implementing innovative practices that improve student outcomes.
• A passion for fostering excellence across academics, arts, and sports, driving student engagement, achievement, and wellbeing

• Eligibility to work in Australia for the duration of the appointment
• Current registration with Queensland College of Teachers (QCT)
• Post-graduate qualifications at a Masters-level in Religious Education, Theology or Christian leadership.
• For this position you are required to be Catholic

Application

The Position Description, Eligibility Criteria and Referee Statement proformas for this position are provided on our careers page and should be downloaded prior to starting your application.

To ensure your application can be fully assessed, please make sure all required documentation is submitted. Applications that are missing documentation and are incomplete may not be progressed.

Response to criteria and resume (upload as a single document)

1. A response (up to 250 words each) to the following criteria (response should be included within cover letter) -  

• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a school community effectively, including experience in strategic planning, staff development, and fostering a positive school culture.
• Proven commitment to promoting and integrating Catholic values and teachings within the school environment, including the ability to lead faith-based initiatives and support the spiritual development of students and staff.
• Extensive experience in educational leadership, including a strong track record of implementing innovative teaching practices, curriculum development, and improving student outcomes in accordance with AITSL standards.

2.   Resume - outlining skills, qualifications, accreditation and experience you bring to this leadership role.

In addition we require Referee Statements

3. Line Manager and Parish Priest Referee Statements - templates are available from our careers page (these can be emailed directly from referees to [email protected])

Why choose BCE

Join us and be part of the largest Catholic Diocese in Queensland, nurturing your personal and professional development goals. As a valued member of our organisation, enjoy these and other rewards:

• Relocation incentives based on eligability
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development
• Competitive remuneration and flexible work arrangements (position dependent)
• Access to targeted AI tools and training with a focus on innovation and strong ethical standards. Learn more here: The Rome Call for AI Ethics and Microsoft Australia News Centre
• Salary packaging and salary-sacrificing options
• Active staff social club and wellness programs
• Personal support for our employees and families through the Employee Assistance Program.
• Fitness Passport access – discounted membership giving you flexible access to a wide network of gyms, pools and fitness facilities for you and your family.

Please note applications for this position may be considered as they are received, and an appointment made prior to the advertised close date.

Everyone at BCE models and fosters a commitment to the safeguarding of children and promotes a culture where student protection is everyone’s responsibility. The Archdiocese of Brisbane has standards of conduct for workers to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children. Our commitment to these standards requires that we conduct working with children checks and background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children and young people and/or adults-at-risk. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has a zero tolerance to abuse of children or adults-at-risk.

Equity and inclusion are at the core of our Catholic values and we recognise the benefits of a diverse workforce. We encourage and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position.

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