Principal

Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Limited

Catholic education in the Diocese of Lismore is a long standing provider of school education on the north coast of New South Wales. 45 Catholic primary and secondary schools, operate in all major urban centres and many smaller towns from Tweed Heads to Laurieton. All Catholic schools seek to provide a comprehensive, quality education in a welcoming and secure environment.

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PRINCIPAL - St Augustine's Primary School, Coffs Harbour

Tenure: Full-time position, 5-year renewable contract commencing January 2027

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Overview of School

Established in 1913, St Augustine’s Primary School provides high-quality Catholic Education for boys and girls from Kindergarten to Year Six.

We have four classes in each of the seven grades and cater for a wide range of students. We teach in collaborative and flexible learning spaces, carefully tailoring each lesson to each child’s needs. We pride ourselves in providing a rich, stimulating and rigorous educational experience that is firmly focused on growth for every child every day. Our approach to Pastoral Care nurtures the development of every student, working with parents and carers to equip them with the skills, values and attitudes vital to success in the future. There are many programs outside the classroom that also aid in the development of the leaders of the next generation, such as school musicals, arts festivals, environment groups, Rugby and basketball teams, robotics, academic competitions, as well as a multitude of other opportunities.

Our school is part of St Augustine’s Parish Coffs Harbour and is a member of the Lismore Diocese School system. Our Catholic Identity and Mission are central to how the school operates and underpins all relationships and activities of the school.

Coffs Harbour, as a city, is one of the most beautiful places on earth. We are situated on the NSW Mid-North Coast, approximately midway between Sydney and Brisbane. The thriving city is always growing as people find out about our excellent climate, glorious beaches and stunning hinterland. Coffs Harbour is a great place to live, and St Augustine’s School is proud to be making a contribution to the city’s development. Further information on our school can be found on our website.

Position Overview

As the faith leader, the Catholic School Principal witness’s faith in action, leading the school community to enact a shared vision that focuses on the provision of a high-quality Catholic education for all students.

The role of Principal supports the underlying Mission of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Lismore by delivering services that contribute to enabling students to achieve the fullness of life.

The Rewards

• Annual Salary: Foundation Level $214,639 - Accomplished Level $ $225,936 per annum plus superannuation.
• Retention Benefits: Your choice of a work motor vehicle or a $20,000 annual allowance plus salary packaging options to maximise your salary.
• Relocation Support: Comprehensive relocation assistance plus reimbursement for on-site interview travel and accommodation.
• Health & Growth: Fitness Passport (discounted gym/aquatic), EAP services and opportunities for professional learning in leadership.

Work Requirements

• Compliance with Accreditation to Work Teach and Lead as prescribed by the Bishops of NSW.
• Hold a valid/paid NSW Working with Children Check.
• A current/valid Australian Driver’s License and eligibility to work within Australia for the period of the appointment.
• A cleared National Police Check.
• Current NESA accreditation.
• Requirement to travel between locations (as required). 

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualifications in Education with postgraduate qualifications at Masters level in Education Leadership (including four units of Religious Education or postgraduate studies in Theology or Religious Education).

Work Experience

• Recent experience as a senior leader in a school.

Key Capabilities

• Demonstrated high levels of organisation, communication, negotiation, collaboration with all in the school’s community.
• Proven experience in leading initiatives that focus on improving learning, engagement and wellbeing outcomes for all students in a student-centred learning environment.
• Demonstrated ability to create, maintain and support high-quality inclusive, supportive and safe learning environments.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of research into teaching, learning and child development and how to apply such research to the needs of the students in the school. This includes the management of performance in the school and strategies to improve practice.
• Proven ability to apply knowledge and understanding of leadership, and management concepts and practice, to deliver with others effective strategic leadership and operational management.
• Sound knowledge and understanding of Catholic education in Australia and demonstrated capacity to implement the Mission of the Church for Catholic Education.
• Demonstrated ability to support school communities to be formed in the Mission of Jesus Christ.
• Working knowledge of WHS and equity with a demonstrated capacity to apply related principles and policies.
• Respect for the teachings of the Catholic Church and by conduct and lifestyle, ability to give witness to the Church’s mission.

To Apply

Please submit an online application, which includes a resume and cover letter tailored to the key capabilities listed in the Position Description. 

Additional Information

• Click this link for information on our Diocese and the School.
• Relocating to the region? Check out The Welcome Experience by NSW Government.
• This position is open to suitably qualified and experienced applicants who are practicing Catholics with an understanding of, and commitment to, the mission and values of Catholic education. 
• Preferred candidates may be required to undertake pre-employment checks, such as references and/or psychometric testing. 
• We do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies for this position and will not be liable for any associated fees.

Enquiries: recruitment@lism.catholic.edu.au

Applications close: 9am, Monday 24 August 2026

Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Limited is committed to creating Child Safe Schools.

Child Protection legislation requires preferred applicants to be subject to employment screening.

An equal opportunity employer.