Culture & Connections Mentor – Specialised Alternative Learning Program (SALP)

Culture & Connections Mentor – SALP

• Status: Full-Time
• The contract is valid until the end of the current funding period.
• Salary Level: Level 3-4 (increment level negotiated based on skills and experience)
• Award: Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Award
• Location: Townsville, Queensland

About the Role

This role is central to implementing the Culture & Connection pillar of the Specialised Alternative Learning Program (SALP), and supports the cultural safety, identity development, and relational learning of young people engaged in the program.

There is a strong focus on demonstrated, lived experience with First Nations culture as well as demonstrated experience working in alternative learning and educational settings. While this is not an identified role, culturally responsive practice is essential to its success.

Working closely with a cultural activity provider, the Officer will help create a culturally safe and inclusive learning environment and support activities such as yarning circles, cultural mapping, storytelling, and celebration events. The position also supports young people's connections to family, kin, community, and place of origin—helping to strengthen their sense of identity and belonging.

About the Work

Depending on skills and experience, responsibilities include:

Cultural & Community Program Support

• Liaise regularly with the chosen cultural activity provider to support planning and delivery
• Assist with facilitation of yarning circles, cultural sessions, storytelling, and family events
• Help uphold cultural safety, protocols, and respectful practices
• Gradually build confidence and competence to co-facilitate sessions
• Contribute to activities that support cultural identity, healing, and belonging

Youth, Family & Social Connection

• Build trusting relationships with participants through culturally sensitive and relational practice
• Facilitate and support connections to family, community, and place of origin
• Assist in welcoming and engaging families and caregivers in program life
• Maintain strong communication with Elders, cultural leaders, and guest facilitators
• Provide one-on-one and group-based support across program activities

Program Participation & Teamwork

• Support a trauma-aware, strengths-based team culture
• Contribute to the setup and coordination of program spaces and events
• Attend team meetings, supervision, and reflective practice sessions
• Participate in daily program routines including shared meals and check-ins
• Assist with informal feedback, storytelling, and documentation of young people's journeys

About You

Reports to: Flexible Learning and Pathways Lead

Works closely with:

• Chosen cultural activity provider
• Youth Workers
• Trade Mentors
• Visiting Elders and facilitators
• Families and community members

Essential Requirements

• Understanding of cultural safety and respectful practice with First Nations communities
• Experience supporting young people in community, mentoring, or educational contexts
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Willingness to learn and grow in cultural facilitation alongside the delivery partner
• Team-oriented and adaptable in a dynamic, youth-centred environment
• Current QLD Working with Children Blue Card (or willingness to obtain)
• Current QLD Driver's Licence

Highly Regarded

• Lived cultural experience and/or strong community connections
• Familiarity with yarning circles, cultural storytelling, or identity-based facilitation
• Qualifications (formal or community-based) in youth work, cultural arts, Indigenous studies, or related fields
• Completion of cultural competency or trauma-informed care

Why Join QYS?

• Diverse and rewarding opportunities to make a real difference
• Supportive and values-driven team culture
• Flexible, community-based work
• Ongoing training and professional development

How to Apply

To express your interest, please submit:

• A current resume
• A cover letter addressing the key selection criteria (no more than 2 pages)

Applications close:31 October 2025 5:00pm

For any enquiries or requests for further information regarding the position,

please contact us

For more information or a confidential conversation,

contact: Clynt Connor