About the DivisionThe Early Learning Operations and Monitoring (ELOM) Division leads core funding, policy, operational and monitoring functions for funded Three and Four-Year-Old kindergarten programs in Victoria.The Division consists of two branches:
Early Learning Funding and Operations Branch
Sector Monitoring and Support Branch.
The division works closely with other divisions across Early Childhood Education (ECE) Group and early childhood staff in Regions and Areas. ELOM plays a key role in providing input and expertise into the planning and implementation of Best Start, Best Life reform activities as well as providing advice and support to Early Childhood Improvement Branches. ELOM also works in consultation with key sector peak bodies and stakeholders.About the Role12 month fixed-term position from November 2025An exciting, fixed-term position is currently available within the Early Learning Operations and Monitoring Division of the Department of Education. The role is part of a high performing, supportive team, passionate about improving outcomes for children.Within the Partnerships and Multicultural Inclusion unit, the Senior Program Advisor will provide program oversight, policy advice and strategic support for targeted initiatives to strengthen kindergarten participation for children from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. The programs include the CALD Outreach Initiative, the Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL) Family Learning Support Program, the Foundation House Early Years Program, fka Children's Services (fkaCS) Cultural Inclusion Support, the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) CALD Kindergarten Participation Project and early childhood language services.The Senior Program Advisor will:
have excellent analytical, conceptual and policy skills and the ability to lead and support the delivery of a range of complex policy projects and programs
have highly developed written and verbal communication skills
enjoy working collaboratively to achieve outcomes through building strong relationships with colleagues in central and regional offices and with external partners and stakeholders.
The successful candidate may be required to work flexibly across other team priorities and workstreams.The Division has a strong culture of supporting flexible working arrangements and full or part-time candidates will be considered.CapabilitiesPlease see the required capabilities below:
VPS Values: Demonstrates the 'Victorian Public Sector Values' of Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership and Human Rights.
Customer Focus: Identifies and responds to customer requirements. Uses understanding of stakeholders' context to tailor programs and ensure program outcomes are delivered. Effectively manages risks to service delivery.
Project Delivery: Translates strategies into programs or projects that actively enable the achievement of outcomes. Defines the governance (e.g., success measures, roles and responsibilities, progress monitoring) required to manage risks and maximise success.
Partnering and Co-creation: Partners with stakeholders to collaborate program design process, to best understand user needs, obtain ideas, insights, and input. Ensures decisions are made within agreed timelines.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience
A Tertiary qualification in a related field.
Proven ability to effectively engage and build positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders through effective communication and exceptional consulting skills.
Strong written communication skills.
Effective conceptual and analytical skills.
Further InformationFor more details regarding this position please see attached position description.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 and ourApplicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at .For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Sarah Riddle, Manager, Partnerships and Multicultural Inclusion Unit, at sarah.riddle@education.vic.gov.auPreferred 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 on Monday 15 September 2025.Job detailsJob Reference: VG/DE/ECE/1882674 Location: Melbourne - CBD Work Type: Fixed term - full time Job Function: Early Childhood Classification: VPSG5 Salary Range: $113,022 - $136,747 Job Duration: 12 Months Date posted: 01-Sep-2025 Application Close Date: 15-Sep-2025 Attachments: (Word, 75KB) Position DescriptionContact:Sarah Riddlesarah.riddle@education.vic.gov.au
