First 5 Forever Officer

About the Library Service

Gold Coast Libraries are a well-used and highly valued public service, serving the community through a broad network of libraries and programs. The service is recognised as one of the largest public library systems in Australia and supports the City’s goal of delivering an innovative, high-quality library experience that helps people connect, learn, and grow.

About the Role

The City of Gold Coast is looking for motivated and approachable First 5 Forever Officers to support one of Queensland’s key early literacy programs. First 5 Forever is delivered statewide through public libraries and is designed to help families with children aged 0 to 5 build the language, literacy, and communication skills that underpin lifelong learning.

In this role, you will work directly with children, parents, carers, and other community members to run engaging family literacy sessions, strengthen community relationships, and promote the value of early literacy. You will also guide and support library staff so they can deliver high-quality First 5 Forever programs throughout the Gold Coast library network.

Role Details

• This is a fixed-term part-time position ending on 30 June 2029.
• There are two vacancies available.
• Work hours are 20 and 25 hours per week.
• The advertised salary starts from $86,611.03 plus superannuation, paid on a pro rata basis.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver inclusive and engaging early literacy activities for families with young children.
• Build strong connections with children, parents, carers, and community groups.
• Support and mentor library staff involved in First 5 Forever program delivery.
• Contribute to customer-focused service delivery across the library network.
• Use technology and digital systems confidently as part of day-to-day work.
• Assist with setting up programs and outreach activities, handling library materials, and working at floor level with children and families.
• Work across different library locations when required.

What You’ll Bring

• Practical experience working with children aged 0 to 5 and their families in an education, library, community, or early childhood environment.
• Strong enthusiasm for early literacy, family engagement, and building community connection.
• The ability to create positive customer experiences and maintain good working relationships.
• Excellent communication and people skills, including the confidence to support and mentor staff.
• Good organisation, with the ability to juggle priorities, meet deadlines, and work both independently and with others.
• Comfort using technology and digital tools.
• The physical capability to set up sessions and outreach activities, work at floor level with young children, manage library resources, and stand or sit for long periods.

Additional Requirements

Flexibility is essential, including the ability to work across the wider library service as needed. The library network includes Southport, Broadbeach, Nerang, Helensvale, Runaway Bay, Ormeau, Upper Coomera, Burleigh Heads, Burleigh Waters, Coolangatta, Elanora, and Robina.

Applicants must complete the computer literacy and internet knowledge (CLIK) test as part of the application process. Applications will only be considered when all required items have been submitted, including a resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages addressing how your skills, experience, and personal attributes align with the role.

Benefits

• Access to personal and professional development courses.
• Use of more than 350 fitness facilities through Fitness Passport.
• Four free confidential counselling sessions each year for you or an immediate family member.
• One free nutritionist session and one free financial advice session annually.

Recruitment Process and Conditions

The selection process may include a one-way video interview through Criteria, an interview held face-to-face or via Microsoft Teams, reference checks through Xref, and further checks such as police screening, employment history verification, qualification verification, pre-employment medical review, and drug and alcohol testing.

The organisation is committed to diversity, inclusion, and a high-performance culture, and encourages candidates from all backgrounds, experiences, and identities to apply. Support or adjustments can be discussed during the recruitment process.

Contact Details

Contact person: Carly Barnes

Contact email: cbarnes@goldcoast.qld.gov.au

Closing date: Sunday 21 June 2026 at 11:59 pm AEDT.