1 x fixed term, full time role available to 30 June 2027 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 Division Early Learning Operations and Monitoring (ELOM) Division leads core funding, policy, operational and monitoring functions for funded three and four-year-old kindergarten in Victoria. The Division consists of two branches: * Early Learning Funding and Operations Branch * Sector Monitoring and Support Branch Key responsibilities of the Early Learning Funding and Operations Branch include: * kindergarten organisational and program requirements as set out in the Kindergarten Funding Guide * setting funding rates and eligibility for all kindergarten setting types and subsidies * strategic funding and operational projects, including supporting Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and the Preschool Reform Agreement * Free Kinder * kindergarten data collection, monitoring and reporting. Key responsibilities of the Early Learning Sector Monitoring and Support Branch include: * kindergarten contract management policy and oversight * leading financial assessment and monitoring of funded kindergarten providers, including the kindergarten Audit and Assurance Program * centrally managed and procured kindergarten supports, including kindergarten payroll and IT and engagement of Early Learning Association Australia * supports and resources for committee of management operated kindergarten services * supporting the implementation of attendance data collection through the Arrival funding system. ELOM Division works closely with other divisions across ECE, other central divisions including Performance and Evaluation Division, and early childhood staff in Regions and Areas. ELOM Division 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 Implementation Branches. ELOM Division also works in consultation with key sector peak bodies and stakeholders. About the Role The Senior Project Officer plays a lead role in the planning, coordination, and delivery of projects that contribute to the successful implementation of Arrival across Victorian kindergartens, with a particular focus on the collection of attendance data. Working under the guidance of the Project Manager, the Senior Project Officer leads monitoring and reporting of project activities, maintains accurate records and databases, and prepares high-quality documentation including reports, briefings, and stakeholder updates. The role requires a strong understanding of project management processes and policy frameworks, as well as an ability to explain concepts clearly to stakeholders and adapt to evolving priorities. The Project Advisor will contribute to stakeholder engagement, conduct research and analysis, and support continuous improvement in project delivery. This is a great opportunity for someone with solid foundational project experience and strong attention to detail, looking to contribute to meaningful reform in the early childhood sector. Attributes This role is suited to applicants who: * Have experience supporting the delivery of projects or programs within a structured framework. * Are confident maintaining accurate records, tracking project progress, and reporting on outcomes. * Bring a good understanding of operational policies and processes, and know how to apply them to guide your work. * Build strong working relationships and responds effectively to stakeholder needs and feedback. * Take initiative, adapt quickly to change, and enjoy working collaboratively across teams to deliver shared goals. Desirable Qualifications and Experience * A suitable tertiary qualification in a related field 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. For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Mathew Lundgren, Executive Director, Early Learning Operations and Monitoring at mathew.lundgren@education.vic.gov.au. 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 2 February 2026.