Principal (Level 5) - Merrimac State School

Merrimac State School is seeking an inspiring visionary Principal to lead our school community with a strong commitment to educational excellence, equity, and innovation. As principal, you will foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment while nurturing strong partnerships with staff, students, parents, and the wider community.

This is a temporary full-time position commencing 20 April 2026 until 18 September 2026, unless otherwise determined. If you are a values driven leader with a passion for shaping future-focused education, we invite you to apply.

Job details

• Position status: Fixed Term Temporary
• Position type: Full-time
• Occupational group: Education & Training
• Classification: Stream3/Level 5
• Workplace Location: Gold Coast
• Job ad reference: QLD/SER680075/26T
• Closing date: 09-Mar-2026
• Yearly salary: $176531 - $179651
• Fortnightly salary: $6766.40 - $6886.00
• Total remuneration:
• Salary Other:
• Job duration: Until 18 September 2026 unless otherwise determine
• Contact person: Samantha Donovan
• Contact details: 07 5617 6205

About Us:

Merrimac State School is a state primary school located on the Queensland Gold Coast between Broadbeach and the Hinterland. The school was established in 1917 as a one-teacher school and has grown over the years to a school catering to students from Prep to Year 6. Merrimac is an inclusive coeducational learning environment.

The school offers a balanced curriculum with a strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, science, ICT, sporting and cultural pursuits. Japanese is taught in all year levels from Prep to Year 6. The School Community has developed our vision statement based on the belief that our children are our future. The school's aim is to develop students who possess the necessary characteristics and skills in order to become successful and active members of the wider community.

About the Role:

Responsibilities include, but not limited to;

• Lead the school community to develop, articulate, and commit to a shared educational vision focused on achieving high-quality learning outcomes for all students.
• Model ethical, values-based leadership by embedding socially just practices into all aspects of school life.
• Set and maintain high standards for student achievement and staff performance, while promoting a culture of lifelong learning and continuous professional development.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with parents, government agencies, community groups, and industry to support student success.
• Lead strategically with a future-focused mindset by understanding relevant legislation and policy, and managing resources effectively to achieve school goals.

Please refer to the attached role description for any mandatory requirements for this position.

How to apply:

• Please submit a maximum 3-page resume including contact details for 2 referees (one whom should be your current supervisor); and
• A maximum two-page written response outlining your suitability for the role referring to Key Capabilities 1 - 4 under "How you will be assessed" in the Role Description.

We welcome all applicants to share any support needed to ensure our recruitment process is inclusive.

Applications remain current for 12 months from the closing date and may be considered for appointment to identical or similar vacancies within the Department.

Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

For a full list of the position responsibilities and mandatory requirements, please ensure you download the attached Role Description and Applicant Information Package and follow the instructions.