At Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Ltd (MACS) we envision every student to be inspired and enabled to flourish and enrich the world. MACS is the largest Catholic school system in Australia. We own, govern and operate approximately 300 Catholic schools, employ over 17,000 staff and serve more than 118,000 students and their families in the Archdiocese of Melbourne.

It is an exciting time to join MACS, where we are transforming to bring to life our strategic plan – MACS 2030: Forming Lives to Enrich the World that will help all MACS staff come together to make the most of what a Catholic education has to offer so that we have the greatest and most distinctive impact in our classrooms, staffrooms and schools communities. More details on the MACS strategy can be found here.

The MACS Code of Conduct (the Code) embodies our collective commitment to fostering a positive and supportive work environment that prioritises the health, safety and wellbeing of everyone, inspired by our Catholic faith. We ask that all staff read and understand the Code and model the behaviours that are expected of us.

Commencement: Term 1 2026

About Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS)

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Ltd (MACS) exists to form lives that enrich the world. As Australia’s largest Catholic school system, MACS governs approximately 300 schools, employs more than 17,000 staff and serves over 118,000 students across the Archdiocese of Melbourne.

MACS is delivering its strategic plan, MACS 2030: Forming Lives to Enrich the World, aligning people, practice and resources to maximise the distinctive impact of Catholic education.

Guided by Catholic faith, MACS is committed to workplaces that are safe, respectful and supportive. The Code of Conduct sets clear expectations for professional integrity, wellbeing and shared responsibility.

The Opportunity

MACS invites applications for the role of Principal at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Alexandra. This role offers an experienced, faith filled educational leader the opportunity to lead a thriving country school community.

This position will appeal to leaders seeking a tree change or a return to regional living. Relocation incentives are available for eligible candidates.

About St Mary’s Catholic Primary School

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Alexandra, is a close-knit regional school serving 133 students, with strong connections to the local parish and the broader Murrindindi community.

The school is characterised by collaborative staff practice, positive learning relationships and an engaged community, and is well positioned for future growth under strong strategic leadership. *Enrolment numbers correct at time of publication.

Key Selection Criteria

Applicants will demonstrate:

Faith Leadership: Active membership in good standing of a Catholic Church community, informed by Church teaching and local mission.

Instructional Leadership: Proven leadership in evidence-based teaching, learning and curriculum.

Safety and Wellbeing: A strong commitment to safe, inclusive and supportive environments for students and staff.

Strategic and Financial Leadership: Capability to lead enrolment growth, financial sustainability, risk management and effective resourcing.

Governance and Compliance: Sound understanding and enactment of legislative and systemic requirements for Catholic schools.

Pastoral Leadership: Justice, compassion and high expectations in leading pastoral care and student pathways.

People Leadership: Strong coaching skills that enable team growth, innovation and continuous improvement.

How to Apply

Please refer to the position description for full role details and selection criteria. To apply, click APPLY and submit:

1. Certified evidence of Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) Registration (including current criminal history check) or current Digital VIT Registration Card.
2. Certified evidence of academic qualifications – inclusive of tertiary qualifications, academic qualifications additional to initial teacher education (Master’s degree or five-year equivalent) and accreditation to teach and or lead Religious Education in a Catholic School.
3. Current resume
4. Cover letter
5. Document addressing the Key Selection Criteria limited to four to five pages.
6. The names and contact details of three referees including the Catholic Priest of the Parish you regularly attend on a Sunday. These professional referees will be required to make relevant verbal responses regarding the applicant’s capacity to meet the specific local selection criteria.

For enquiries or a confidential discussion regarding relocation, please contact:

Marwin Austerberry, General Manager East, 03 9427 6400 or [email protected]

MACS is committed to the safety, wellbeing and protection of all children in our care. The successful applicant must meet all child safety and probity requirements, including VIT/WWCC, a national criminal history check, and completion of a Schools Fit and Proper Personal Declaration. Applicants must hold full Australian working rights.

Privacy Collection Notice – Job Applicants

MACS collects your Personal information to assess your application and suitability for employment.  By submitting your Personal information, you consent to the use and disclosure of your Personal information for the purpose of being considered for employment at MACS.  Applicants can withdraw their applications at any time during the recruitment process

For further details, please see the full Privacy Collection Notice here.

Applications close: 4:00pm, Monday 6 July 2026