Over half of all state schools in Queensland are located in rural and remote locations, with approximately one-quarter of state school students enrolled in these schools. The department recognises the dedication to quality teaching and learning occurring in state schools in rural and remote locations.

The department encourages staff to gain valuable experience working in Queensland's rural and remote communities. It is a rewarding lifestyle choice that offers many advantages both personally and professionally.

Experiencing rural or remote placements provides an invaluable opportunity to broaden teaching practices along with enhanced employment opportunities for both experienced and beginning teachers.

Teachers in rural and remote locations have:

• greater opportunities to undertake leadership roles

• greater involvement in planning and management within the school

• an active and valued role in their community

• access to induction, professional development and support programs

• extended emergent leave provisions

• access to significant incentives, benefits and locality allowances

• generous transfer and relocation assistance

• accelerated transfer points

• departmental housing.

Moving to a rural and remote community

Starting a new job and moving house can be stressful, but it can also be very exciting, especially if you're moving to a rural or remote area after always living in a city or large town.

The secret to success⁠—be well prepared and informed about where you'll be living.

How to prepare

You can find information on the internet about your school and local community. Local government websites often have photos of local communities and surrounding areas, as well as information about sporting and community organisations.

Access the Local government association of Queensland and use the Teach Queensland website to find links to schools and rural and remote information as well as information on the Recognition of Rural and Remote Service (RoRRS) Scheme.

Use the teaching checklist⁠—relocation procedures to help you prepare.

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When you arrive

When you know the date and time of your arrival, contact your school's principal to let him or her know.

Getting involved

Get to know your new community and join in with the various local activities (social, cultural and sporting) on offer. Many communities hold events in the lead-up to the start of school.

Getting involved in the community can provide you with invaluable knowledge about your students and their families. Ask your principal, buddy teacher or mentor when and where events are taking place.

Benefits and allowances

Information on benefits, support and allowances for teachers working in a rural and remote location is available on the Teach Queensland website.​