Teaching and living in Far North Queensland offers unique and rewarding experiences, personally and professionally.
The region skirts the Queensland coast and offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests, tropical islands and remote communities. Home to the city of Cairns, the region stretches from Cardwell on the Cassowary Coast in the south, to the Torres Strait in the north and inland west to the Gulf of Carpentaria. The breathtaking scenery and locals from diverse backgrounds are always eager to welcome visitors and new residents, especially teachers and their families.
Benefits in the region
Unique teaching opportunities
With large urban schools in Cairns, to schools in coastal and rural communities, and small schools that are located on tropical islands, the opportunities for teachers are wide and diverse across our Far North Queensland region.
From state delivered kindy programs through to secondary and special education settings, distance education programs and environmental education centres, our schools work collaboratively with their local community to ensure that all students have access to the teachers they need, regardless of where they live and learn.
Impactful work
Teachers are highly regarded in communities across Far North Queensland and are recognised for making a tangible and positive difference in the lives of students, particularly in remote and Indigenous communities, where schools are often the heart of the community.
If you are seeking an opportunity to make a lasting impact and to learn with your students, colleagues and community, teaching in this region could be a great option for you.
Strong demand for teachers
Teaching in diverse settings from remote communities to coastal schools, provides unique and rewarding personal and professional experiences.
The demand for primary, secondary and special education teachers across Far North Queensland continues to be high particularly in rural and remote areas, providing employment security and increased opportunities to undertake leadership roles within the school and across the region.
Teachers and school leaders in the region have access to a variety of school and community based professional development, as well as access to regional and state-wide opportunities through the
Education Futures Institute .
Financial benefits
Teachers and their families across the region have access to a generous range of financial incentives and housing, relocation and travel benefits through the
Recognition of Rural and Remote Service Scheme. Depending on the community these can include relocation and settlement assistance, location allowances for family members, subsidised housing or rent assistance, recognition of service payments, travel allowances and access to additional leave and extended school holidays.
Residents of Far North Queensland generally enjoy a lower cost of living compared to major cities with plenty of opportunities to spend time with family and friends, and explore the region's natural wonders, there are more than financial benefits on offer in the region.
Life in the tropics
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and embrace a more laid-back lifestyle in Far North Queensland.
In the region you can immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, from the Great Barrier Reef to lush rainforests and pristine beaches. With year-round sunshine and mild winters, the region is perfect for those who love the exploring nature and outdoor activities like diving, snorkelling, hiking, surfing and fishing.
Whether you want to dive the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, 4-wheel drive in the outback, walk through the world's oldest tropical rainforest or catch a glimpse of the cultural mosaic of the Torres Strait Islands, this region has plenty to offer.
Community and culture
Communities across Far North Queensland offer a rich cultural tapestry, reflective of its rich history and mix of cultures from far and wide.
The region has one the highest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations in Australia, with many descendants of the owners of the land, seas and waterways still living in and around the region. They maintain their ancestors’ spiritual connection with the land and welcome the opportunity to share their culture with teachers and their families.
Find schools in the Far North Queensland region
Explore the schools and communities across our Far North Queensland region via the
Department of Education’s interactive map.