Program Leader - Ipswich

Your Role

Upbeat Arts is looking for a kind, warm, organised and community-minded person to help establish and lead our newest choir in Ipswich.

This is a special opportunity to help build something from the ground up, creating a welcoming and inclusive community where adults living with mental illness can connect, create and belong through music. You will play an important role in shaping the culture and foundations of the choir from the very beginning.

Your own life will be enriched too. This is the kind of work that stays with you, bringing meaning, joy and a sense of community and belonging well beyond the working day.

We encourage you to read on to see if you might just be the person we are looking for.

At Upbeat Arts, each choir has three paid positions:

  • Program Leader, to manage the choir and all elements relating to it. Part time, approximately 10 to 12 hours per week
  • Choir Conductor, to conduct the choir and be responsible for the musical outcomes. Sessional, 3 hours per week
  • Choir Accompanist, to play piano and work alongside the Conductor. Sessional, 3 hours per week

This vacancy is for the Program Leader position.

As Program Leader, you will help coordinate and facilitate the establishment of the Ipswich choir and oversee its ongoing operation. The role includes member support and communications, volunteer recruitment and coordination, venue liaison, community networking, rostering, administration and supporting performances in the local community.

Our Position Description tells the whole story. Ask us for a copy if you do not already have it.

Work details

  • Part time, approximately 10 to 12 hours per week
  • Hours will be structured around the agreed weekly rehearsal schedule
  • The role also includes supporting local community performances and two annual events held in Brisbane on Saturdays
  • At times, particularly around events and performances, additional hours may be needed. We offer full flexibility around this
  • Work can be done from home, or the local coffee shop, when you are not at rehearsal or attending meetings and community activities
  • It is preferable that the successful candidate resides in or near Ipswich
  • The successful applicant will commence in late July or early August 2026 to support preparations for the choir launch in early February 2027
  • The rate of pay will be discussed during initial conversations with short listed candidates

What you'll bring

  • A passion for the arts and mental wellbeing, and a warm, caring, resourceful and organised approach to your work
  • Experience working with diverse communities, including people living with mental illness or experiencing social isolation
  • Strong leadership, coordination or community development experience
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong organisational and administrative skills
  • Confidence using Microsoft 365 including Outlook, Word, Excel, OneDrive and Teams
  • Relevant qualifications are welcome but not essential
  • Experience within the mental health, community services, arts or not for profit sectors will be highly regarded

How to apply

Applications should be submitted via Ethical Jobs by 9am on 3 August 2026.

Please visit our website to review the Position Description before applying.

Your application should include:

  • A current resume of no more than two pages outlining your relevant experience and qualifications
  • A cover letter addressing the following questions:
    • Why would you like to work with Upbeat Arts?
    • What is it about the Upbeat Arts choir model that excites you?
    • Why are you a great fit for this role, and how does your experience meet the requirements outlined in the Position Description?

Short listed applicants will be invited to interview and asked to provide references.

[Apply via Ethical Jobs]

Thank you for your interest in joining the Upbeat Arts team. We look forward to hearing from you.

Contact Information

For more details, please email message us via our ‘Contact Us’ page or contact our General Manager, Susan Gilmartin, susan.gilmartin@upbeatarts.org.au