An ongoing teacher shortage at Biloela State High School in central Queensland has caused the cancellation of school events and senior subject offerings, leading some parents to withdraw their children from the public school system.
Year 10 student Zara Trevithick is among those affected; she is spending her winter holidays catching up on assessments at a new school after deciding to transfer to the local private Christian school for term three. Zara and her family felt the public school could no longer meet her educational needs.
Mr Burling, treasurer of the school's parents and citizens association, reported a 12.5% drop in enrolments over 15 months, with 489 students enrolled as of May 2026. He expressed concern about the lack of a clear plan to address the staffing issues before Zara enters year 11.
Central Queensland organiser Dan Coxen highlighted the disparity in staffing levels, stating, "We're seeing metro regions being staffed well and above and beyond 100 per cent while some of the regions — and CQ is in the worst position here — are being staffed well below that 100 per cent minimum staffing level."
In response to the shortage, the Department of Education cancelled the school athletics carnival, citing staff availability, high risks involved in some events, and alternative opportunities for students. The department also noted that some elective subjects are not continuing while recruitment efforts focus on covering core subjects to ensure continuity of learning. Support is available for students wishing to re-engage with electives through distance education and alternative pathways.
In a letter to parents, Mr Head stated that some advertised vacancies have applicants expected to fill them, while others await visa approvals.
Parents and community members emphasize the importance of preparing students for local job opportunities, with concerns that current conditions are insufficient to equip them as frontrunners for future work.
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