About the division
The Department of Education's Quality Assessment and Regulation Division (QARD) is the Regulatory Authority for early childhood education and care services operating in Victoria.
We are responsible for the licensing and regulation of more than 5,000 education and care services operating across the State.
We apply risk-based approaches to monitor and enforce compliance with regulations ensuring the safety, health and wellbeing of children and the delivery of high-quality services.
About the branch
The Regulatory Strategy, Services and Compliance Branch (RSSC) has a range of responsibilities including providing expert regulatory advice, strategic leadership and risk intelligence.
Its regulatory functions include licensing education and care service premises, assessment of fitness and propriety, and managing complex compliance and statutory enforcement matters.
The RSSC branch comprises three business units:
* Service Administration and Support – licenses and approves early childhood education and care service providers and services including assessments of fitness and priority and administers existing service licences.
Also provides a first point of contact for regulatory enquiries.
* Monitoring and Compliance – leads and provides advice on strategic compliance, supports the development operational policy, promotes implementation of best regulatory practice.
The unit also manages and provides advice on serious non-compliance and enforcement matters and is responsible for engagement and information sharing with co-regulators.
* Joint Compliance and Monitoring Program – undertakes targeted risk-based compliance projects and collaborates with co-regulators on joint compliance and investigations.
About the Role
The Program Officer provides vital administrative, coordination and analytical support to RSSC.
The role contributes to the delivery of branch projects, programs and governance activities that support regulatory excellence across the division.
Working closely with colleagues and stakeholders, the Program Officer assists with planning, data collection, reporting and record management to ensure effective oversight of regulatory initiatives.
This role suits an organised and adaptable individual who has exceptional interpersonal skills and enjoys supporting project delivery, improving processes, and contributing to a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
The Program Officer will:
* Support the Senior Advisor in the coordination, monitoring of regulatory projects, programs, and governance activities across the branch.
* Undertake administrative and operational tasks to support delivery of branch priorities, including scheduling meetings and events, documentation, reporting, and record management.
* Collect, analyse and maintain project and program data to support oversight, assurance and reporting functions.
* Assist developing and maintaining project tools, templates, registers and systems to support continuous improvement and effective program delivery.
* Undertake activities as required to assist the branch to deliver regulatory priorities including licensing, risk intelligence and enforcement.
* Engage with stakeholders to gather information, follow up actions, and support collaboration across business units.
* Contribute to governance and business process improvements, assist with branch recruitment and support the implementation of people and culture initiatives within the branch.
* Exercise sound judgement when applying established procedures, guidelines and policies to achieve quality and timely outcomes.
Attributes
The successful candidate will be proactive, detail-oriented and highly organised, proficient with information management technologies, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced regulatory environment.
They will demonstrate initiative in supporting project coordination, data analysis and administrative tasks, and will show flexibility in responding to changing priorities and emerging issues.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, enabling effective collaboration with colleagues across all levels of the organisation.
The Program Officer will take pride in delivering high-quality outputs, maintaining accurate records and contributing to continuous improvement.
They will uphold the Victorian Public Sector Values and model professionalism, accountability and respect in all interactions, supporting the branch's commitment to a positive, inclusive and high-performing workplace.Desirable Qualifications and Experience
Previous experience working in a regulatory environment would be highly regarded.
A valid Working with Children's Check is essential.Further Information
Applicants are required to submit a CV and cover letter (max 2 pages for cover letter) summarising their skills, relevant experience and suitability to the role.
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 .
For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Leah Tsomos – Senior Advisor, RSSC by phone on ************.
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 on Monday 8th December ****