This is a part-time, fixed term role.
About the Department
The department provides a wide range of learning and development support and services.
The department provides policy leadership, plans for the future of education in Victoria and leads key cross-sector collaboration. The department plays an important system steward role by providing support, guidance, oversight and assurance across early childhood and school education systems, as well as directly providing school education and 50 new early learning centres.
About the Group
Schools and Regional Services (SRS) offers central, regional, and local expertise to enhance learning and development outcomes, supported by a diverse and geographically dispersed workforce. It comprises 17 areas within 4 regions, backed by 5 central office divisions, all collaborating to deliver improved outcomes for early childhood services, schools, communities, and learners, in line with Education State commitments. SRS regions serve as a bridge between the central office, schools, and service providers, ensuring smooth transitions for learners and achieving the department's ambitious targets. Each region includes divisions specialising in school performance, student wellbeing and early childhood support, working with area-based teams to tailor local interventions and practices. The 17 areas provide crucial insights into local trends and issues, facilitating effective policy and program development and driving child and learner outcomes across all services and programs.
This role is located in the Early Childhood Improvement Branch (ECIB), Mallee Area, North Western Victoria Region, SRS. The ECIB implements key government early childhood policy, initiatives, reforms, and strategies at a local level.
About the Role
The Early Childhood Implementation Branch (ECIB) plays a key role in delivering government policies and reforms at the local level, including Pre-Prep and Best Start, Best Life. With a strong focus on enhancing service quality, the branch supports kindergarten programs and initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for young children.
We are currently seeking an Early Childhood Funding Advisor (ECFA) to join our Mallee ECIB team, based in either Mildura or Swan Hill. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting the branch in administering funding and managing service agreements in line with program business rules. You'll also ensure the accuracy and integrity of data by maintaining records across various business systems, particularly the Kindergarten Information Management and ARRIVAL systems.
Key responsibilities of the role include:
- Provision of a range of program support services to funded agencies, the ECIB, and broader regional staff.
- Delivery of high-quality, timely, and responsive customer service to managers, colleagues, service providers, clients, and members of the public.
- Coordinating the collection, entry, and management of data for program reporting and evaluation purposes.
- Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records for funded services and program areas using departmental business systems, including the Kindergarten Information Management and ARRIVAL systems.
- Processing funding and service agreement activities in line with established program business rules and operational guidelines.
- Collaborating effectively with internal and external stakeholders to support the implementation of early childhood initiatives and ensure compliance with funding requirements.
Attributes:
Are you an innovative systems-thinker with a knack for solving complex problems? We are looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative team environment and is passionate about achieving shared goals.
To succeed in this role, you will demonstrate:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate systems and processes to support accurate and timely funding outcomes.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build and maintain effective relationships with peers, external stakeholders, and service providers.
- A proactive and flexible approach, with a willingness to learn and adapt to shifting priorities and emerging challenges.
- A strong sense of initiative and accountability, paired with sound judgement and attention to detail.
- A collaborative mindset and commitment to contributing positively within a high-performing team.
Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience and expertise using SAMS2, KIMS and ARRIVAL software is desirable but not essential.
How to Apply
Submit a resume (max. 2 pages) and a cover letter (max. 3 pages) addressing the role attributes and Key Selection Criteria.
Further Information
For more details regarding this position please see attached position description for the capabilities to address in application.
The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page
Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.
Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at www.education.vic.gov.au.
Applicants are encouraged to contact Lisa Smyth, Manager, Early Childhood Improvement Branch, Mallee Area via 0408 264 662 or [email protected] to discuss details pertaining to the role prior to the submission of their application.
Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements.
Applications Close 11.59pm, 1 August 2025.
