Role
[Attendance requirement for this position]
A Business Manager role will usually undertake tasks that impact on the whole school. The role seeks to gain cooperation of other staff members or members of the school community to achieve specific objectives, such as in school administration, finance or human resources.
Direction on targets and goals is provided but the position will have some degree of latitude in determining how they are achieved. This latitude will generally be limited by standard procedures and school policy. Deviation from standard procedures and school policy will require guidance and direction from senior management.
Management of staff to achieve the expected outcomes is a key responsibility. Staff management issues will be resolved with minimal reference to senior management, although guidance will be required in more complex cases. Senior management will be provided with timely reports and advice in matters relating to the school finance, human resources or school administration.
Responsibilities
Deliver School Services
1. Manage the design and production of school publications and documents
Finance
2. Manage and direct the preparation of annual budgets and regular financial statements and contribute to the financial decision making of the school.
3. Prepare funding submissions for the leadership team and school council.
4. Direct the accounting processes of the school and ensure that all funds, including school investments, are effectively accounted for according to Treasury regulations.
5. Provide advice to staff on spending against budget in respect to faculties, programs and other school projects.
6. Administer government grants and other school income.
7. Manage fund raising activities.
General Administration
8. Ensure the provision of a range of administrative support functions for the Principal and teaching staff.
9. Provide administrative support to external service providers as required.
10. Manage the processing of student admissions, registrations, enrolments and transfers.
11. Provide required level of administrative support for school events, functions and projects.
12. Implement induction programs for new staff, volunteers and other workers to the school.
Human Resources
13. Research, plan and prepare development programs for support staff.
14. Manage recruitment procedures.
15. Provide authoritative advice to the leadership team on support structures and work practices.
16. Assist in the development of work practices that ensure appropriate occupational health and safety standards are maintained.
17. Manage procedures relating to employee relations issues.
18. Assist in the development of human resource planning.
Manage School Resources
19. Coordinate the use and maintenance of school buildings and equipment.
20. Liaise and negotiate with service providers in respect to the cost and quality of services.
21. Supervise the delivery of contracted services.
22. Manage the development and collection of resource material at the school.
Support School Council
23. Draft reports and make recommendations on operational issues.
24. Evaluate and report on the operational efficiency of computer systems in production, making recommendations for improvement where appropriate.
25. Develop techniques and procedures that will affect work practices beyond the work place.
26. Manage a technical program with a broad scope across the school.
Who May Apply
Individuals with the aptitude, experience and/or qualifications to fulfill the specific requirements of the position.
EEO AND OHS Commitment
The Department of Education is committed to the principles of equal opportunity, and diversity and inclusion for all. We value 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 roles within the Department. The Department recognises that the provision of family friendly, supportive, safe and harassment free workplaces is essential to high performance and promotes flexible work, diversity and safety across all schools and Department workplaces. It is our policy to provide reasonable adjustments for persons with a disability (see ).
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants can contact Brett West, Yamatji man, in the Koorie Outcomes Division to talk about the recruitment process, the Department and supports for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in the Department. Mobile: 0477 726 801 or email on:
Child Safe Standards
Victorian government schools are child safe environments. Our schools actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students, and all school staff are committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment, in accordance with their legal obligations including child safe standards. All schools have a Child Safety Code of Conduct consistent with the Department’s exemplar available at:
DE Values
The Department’s employees commit to upholding DE’s Values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership and Human Rights. DE’s Values complement each school’s own values and underpin the behaviours the community expects of Victorian public sector employees, including those who work in Victorian Government Schools. Information on the DE values is available at:
Other Information
27. All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
28. Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
29. A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.
30. Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website at
Conditions of Employment
31. All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
32. Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
33. A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.
34. Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website at
Location Profile
The city of Ararat is located between the Grampians and Pyrenees ranges, in the central highlands of Western Victoria, 200km from Melbourne, approximately 100kms west of Ballarat. Ararat has an estimated population of 11,500 people and offers country hospitality and country lifestyle. Ararat and the surrounding area has stunning natural attractions, mountains, national parks, historical buildings and plenty of local wines and farm produce. Please view the Ararat City Council website for more information
Ararat College has a current enrolment of 315 students. Students are transported to school on six country buses, with a variety of primary schools feeding into the College. The integration of students from small primary schools into a relatively large secondary is a challenge, which Ararat College believes it handles well.
Ararat College is a school with strong traditions. In a caring, well-disciplined atmosphere, the college sets high standards in all aspects of student endeavour, behaviour and attire. Dedicated and talented teaching and support staff deliver engaging education opportunities to all students. Ararat College, in partnership with the community, provide an education that empowers young people to find their voice and thrive in any endeavour with respect, responsibility and excellence. The College makes a feature of encouraging, recognising and celebrating academic excellence, student leadership and co-curriculum participation.
A comprehensive range of co-curricular activities are offered to students, including instrumental music, media programs, camps, State School Spectacular, band, theatre/musical production and sport programs. This supports the growth of students into confident, successful and contributing citizens.
With commitment and support from staff and the community Ararat College looks to the future with great confidence and excitement.