Cancer doesn’t discriminate and neither do we. Canteen welcomes people with diverse sexualities, gender identities and intersex variations and from all cultures, backgrounds and abilities. We believe that diversity in all its forms is a strength and are committed to working towards being an organisation that is inclusive of all individuals, so we can create a more vibrant and innovative culture. Canteen acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as sovereign custodians of this land. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. Canteen is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and people of all ages.

About us

Canteen is all about supporting young people and their families affected by cancer. Founded by young cancer patients, we offer programs and resources that truly make a difference for 12-25 year-olds facing their own diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or grieving. Together, we believe our team can create real change!.

We are now seeking a Programs Officer , who will play a pivotal role in designing, delivering and evaluating a portfolio of peer support, psychosocial and recreational initiatives for Canteen’s service users. You will play a key role in Canteen’s psychosocial practices and act as a key support worker for participants where appropriate, safeguarding the wellbeing of young people through their Canteen experience.

This is a high-energy role for a natural communicator who is able to engage young people, volunteers and the general public about our work. Above all, you are dedicated to meaningful impact.

This role offers an opportunity make a real impact within the programs area, and be part of an organisation that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

About our benefits

We connect, we empower, we challenge, and we are real. These values ground the way we work at Canteen, and underpin a culture that brings people together in an inspiring and positive way. Find out more on our LinkedIn Life Page.

Base Salary + Superannuation + Not-For-Profit Salary Packaging (up to $18,550 of your salary tax-free).
5 Weeks Annual Leave (FTE) + 17.5% leave loading + pay during our annual office closure week.
Early access to long service leave
Learning & Development opportunities.

About our role

Design, deliver and evaluate a portfolio of peer support, psychosocial and recreational initiatives for Canteen’s service users.
Design and plan a yearly calendar of events including recreation activities and day and overnight programs for young people living with cancer.
Induct and retain volunteers for events, recreation activities and psychosocial day and overnight programs in line with Canteen’s volunteer management processes.
Facilitate the youth leadership program in line with Canteen’s leadership framework.
Ensure events, activities and psychosocial day and overnight programs are actively promoted with all promotional materials and social media activity compliant with Canteen’s brand guidelines.
Attend and promote Canteen at relevant conferences and networking forums as identified in your state/territory plan.
Conduct thorough risk analysis of all activities in line with Canteen’s risk management guidelines and ensure all sign off is completed to timelines specified in Canteen’s operating procedures.
Adhere to all child protection policies and procedures including monitoring ‘working with children checks’ for volunteers and local leadership participants.
Plan accurate estimation of yearly events, recreation activities, psychosocial day and overnight programs costs with State Manager.

About You

Tertiary qualification (Bachelor's degree and upwards) in Sport/Recreation Management, Youth Work, Education, Human Services, Health Promotion, Community Development, or related fields
Certified in First Aid and Mental Health First Aid or ability to attain both certificates.
ASIST or similar suicide prevention training (desirable).
Current driver's license and the flexibility to travel interstate, work weekends and evenings (with notice) are essential.
Background in supporting young people experiencing significant life challenges.
Demonstrated skills designing and delivering engaging events, recreation programs and programs with significant psychosocial practice elements (e.g. structured group work time).
Experience in group facilitation, coordination, and management
Strong organisational/project planning and time management skills.
Ability to think creatively and innovatively with regard to recreation and other program activities.
Strong communication and networking skills.
A proactive and positive attitude with a willingness to learn and take on new challenges.
Warm, compassionate, and friendly approach to supporting our young people

Applications close on Friday 19th December 2025 . If you’re passionate about what you do and are ready to make a difference, apply now. We’ll review applications regularly. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Employment Expectations

To ensure an ongoing commitment to the success of Canteen, all applications must be able to:

Successfully complete and maintain a current National Police Check and Working with Child Check relevant to the individual’s state jurisdiction.
Undergo an extensive screening process prior to appointment to guarantee the safety of all Canteen’s stakeholders.
Provide at least two direct referees to ensure a successful reference check is completed.
Provide relevant copies of professional qualification/s stated on the application

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