Requirements for the Role

Becoming a school chaplain

If you are interested in becoming a school chaplain, please check out the following requirements:

minimum education department qualification requirements

The Queensland Department of Education requires that a chaplain “holds a Certificate IV in Pastoral Care, Youth Work, or Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care, or an equivalent/higher qualification; and that qualification must include competencies in ‘making appropriate referrals’ and ‘mental health’.”

Other qualifications or aggregated experience may be deemed equivalent, provided they align with the role and include the three mandatory units.

Qualification Waivers

In some instances, the Department may grant a waiver. You’ll need to complete the three compulsory units within 6 months and the full qualification within 12 months of appointment.

Pathways

Select the qualification option that best describes your situation:

  • Certificate IV / Diploma in Youth Work or Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care
  • Ministry or Theological qualification
  • Psychology, Social Work, Education or Community Work qualification
  • No relevant qualifications

Stand-alone Competencies

  • Make appropriate referrals
  • Work with people with mental health issues
  • Either pastoral care or working with youth

Other Requirements

Right to Work Documents: See the list on our main site.

Working With Children Check: Check requirements on our main site.

SU Salary Bands: Progression is by qualification & experience. To move up, you need a relevant Diploma or higher.

Which best describes you?
Mandatory Units Check

Does your qualification include the three mandatory units?

  • CHCCCS016 – Respond to client needs
  • CHCMHS001 – Work with people with mental health issues
  • A pastoral care or youth work unit
Ministry/Theological Check

Is your qualification one of the following?

  • Diploma of Chaplaincy (Alphacrucis)
  • Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy (Nazarene Theological College)
Psych/Social Work/Edu Check

Does your qualification meet any of these?

  • An APA-accredited psychology sequence
  • Qualification for AASW membership
  • Qualification enabling teacher registration
  • Qualification for ACWA membership
Community Services Pathway
You hold all three mandatory units and meet the Education Department requirements. You’re eligible to proceed with your application as a school chaplain.
Ministry/Theological Pathway
Your Ministry or Theological qualification aligns with SU Chaplaincy training requirements. You’re eligible to proceed with your application as a school chaplain.
Psych/Soc Work/Edu Pathway
Your qualification meets one of the recognised professional bodies and you hold the three mandatory units. You can apply now.
Other Pathway
You don’t currently hold a relevant qualification. To become eligible, complete a Certificate IV or Diploma in Pastoral Care, Youth Work, or Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care. Visit our training site for course options.