Child Safety Officer in North Lakes

Every child needs someone. So does every family. What if it’s you? The Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety is looking for passionate people to join us as Child Safety Officers (CSOs) in Mackay. Whether you’re a graduate or changing careers, if you have experience or interest in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or similar — this could be your next step.

What you need to be a CSO

• Completed bachelor's degree - PO3 Child Safety Officers must meet one of two qualification pathways.
• Pathway 1: Applicants automatically meet requirements with a bachelor degree in Social Work, Psychology, Behavioural Science, Human Services or Master of Social Work.
• Pathway 2: Alternative bachelor degrees may qualify by demonstrating at least six relevant AQF Level 7 subjects plus either an additional relevant qualification or 12 months of full-time paid experience in a relevant role.
• A Queensland Blue Card, is a mandatory requirement to hold before applying for a Child Safety Officer Role.
• A Valid Driver’s License, and the legal right to work in Australia.

As part of your application, you will need to provide certified evidence of your qualifications, working rights, and driver’s license.

Working in Mackay

Based in the Mackay Child Safety Service Centre, you’ll be part of a full‑service hub working alongside other government agencies in this vibrant Central Queensland city. Mackay offers excellent amenities — including an airport, hospitals, shopping centres and cinemas — along with incredible natural attractions. As the southern gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays, you’ll enjoy tropical ocean adventures, lush hinterlands, and Australia’s longest subtropical rainforest. Working here also means you’ll receive additional regional incentives:

• $2,500 annual remote and regional allowance
• $29.00 fortnightly locality allowance
• Extra 5 Days of Annual Leave

What does being a CSO mean?

As a CSO, you’ll be a voice for children and young people, ensuring their safety and wellbeing under the Child Protection Act 1999. You’ll:

• Work closely with families, caregivers, and community organisations
• Deliver statutory child protection services, including assessment, intervention, casework, and case management
• Attend court and write affidavits
• Work with partner agencies and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisations
• Provide safe, culturally informed, and respectful support to families from diverse backgrounds

This is challenging work — but it’s also deeply rewarding. You’ll help build safer, brighter futures for Queensland’s children.

What you get for becoming a CSO:

• PO3 Starting salary of $107,695 - $117,296
• 12.75% superannuation
• Flexible leave and TOIL options
• 2 weeks of formal training and ongoing training including one-on-ones with your Team leader

Previous Departmental Applicants

All previous departmental applicants are advised that they will be subject to internal disciplinary checks.

A chief executive can assess a person's suitability through a range of mechanisms, including but not limited to: criminal history (for relevant duties and prescribed duties which includes child-related duties) and serious disciplinary action.