Guidance Counsellor - Cairns Catholic Education Office - Servicing Newman Catholic College, Smithfield

School Counsellor

Newman Catholic College, Smithfield

Commencement Date : March 2026 (Negotiable)

Employment Type :   Full-time, Permanent based at Newman Catholic College, Smithfield

Salary Range : $123,709 - $131,629 FTE Gross per annum

Closing Date for Applications : 11 pm Sunday 1 March 2026

Catholic Education, Cairns

Our schools are nestled amongst ancient rainforests, pristine waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes and the spectacular Great Barrier Reef. And you can forget spending hours in the car or on a packed train. The hustle and bustle of the capital cities does not compare to our laidback commute.

About the Role

The School Counsellor role has a focus on fostering the development, mental health and resilience of all students, including those considered at-risk and those with special needs. This focus is achieved by applying guidance and counselling skills through direct and indirect processes and through systemic and individual interventions - thus contributing to equitable educational access, participation, and outcomes for all students. The School Counsellor is a certified professional who works in partnership with the school by contributing specialised knowledge and skills in a collaborative, collegial manner.

Work Requirements

• With Teacher Qualifications - Be registered or eligible to be registered with Queensland College of Teachers
• Without Teacher Qualifications - Hold a Working with Children Blue Card
• Be fully supportive of the ethos of Catholic Education
• Formal qualifications at Degree level are required in the disciplines of Education Psychology or Social Work and relevant post graduate experience
• School Counsellors (Teacher)  require registration with Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) and full membership of the Queensland Guidance Counsellor Association (QGCA) or general registration with Psychology Board of Australia (AHPRA) or full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers

(AASW)

What we offer

Applications must include a resume and cover letter (not more than 3 pages). Applicants are requested to respond to the Essential Duties and Responsibilities as outlined in the position description, please outline your experience and include examples. Please clearly state which professional authority you are registered with and membership number (i.e. QCT, AHPRA, AASW and QGCA).

Catholic Education Services encourages applicants to apply ASAP, interviews may be offered before the closing date.

For further information about the role, please download the Position Description  School Counsellor PD

For enquiries : Please call (

Intending applicants must be fully committed to creating and maintaining a child safe organisation.

Catholic Education is an equal opportunity employer.