Are you an experienced Centre Director with a deep passion for early childhood education and a love for building strong community connections? Do you thrive in a agile environment where children, families, and educators learn, connect, and grow together?
We are a unique, not-for-profit, community-based childcare centre located in Swan Hill, Victoria, and we are looking for an inspiring Centre Director to lead our dedicated team and become a valued member of our ELC family.
About Us
Located on the beautiful banks of the Murray River, Swan Hill offers more than just a job, it is a chance to be part of a thriving, close-knit community where work-life balance truly exists. With its warm, sunny climate and laid-back lifestyle, Swan Hill is the perfect place to grow your career while enjoying the benefits of regional living. With excellent schools, quality healthcare, and affordable housing, Swan Hill is a fantastic place to raise a family, build your future, and enjoy a more relaxed, meaningful way of life.
We offer a beautiful homely space where children are encouraged to learn and play indoors and outdoors. As a not-for-profit organisation, we are guided by strong community values, and our focus is always on the wellbeing, education, and development of our children. Our culture thrives on collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to lifelong learning.
About the Role
As our Centre Director, you will be at the heart of our operations, leading with passion, purpose, and professionalism. You will work closely with our 2IC and actively collaborate with our engaged Board of Management on key decisions, strategic planning, budgeting, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead a team of dedicated educators to deliver high-quality early childhood education and care.
Ensure compliance with all regulatory, financial, and operational requirements.
Maintain robust, open communication with the Board of Management, participating in monthly meetings (outside of centre hours) and supporting key community events such as the AGM and family days.
Foster an inclusive, engaging, and nurturing environment where families, children, and educators feel connected and supported.
What we are Looking For
We are seeking a leader who:
Has proven experience in a director or a leadership role within an early childhood education setting and is ready to take the next step in their career.
A minimum of 3 years in a similar management role, with a strong understanding of early childhood education, team management, and financial oversight.
Holds a relevant Early Childhood qualification (Diploma or Degree level) and meets ACECQA requirements.
Brings strong knowledge of the National Quality Framework (NQF) and Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).
Current Provide an Emergency First Aid response in an Education and Care Setting qualification
Valid Working with Children Check
Accredited Child Protection Training
Familiarity with OWNA, Xero, up to date knowledge and compliance of all regulations and acts, and holding a valid PRODA account.
Excels in team leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.
Is community-minded, collaborative, and committed to making a meaningful impact.
Must hold Australian work rights to be eligible for this position.
This role is:
Full-time, Monday to Friday with flexibility around work hours for the right candidate
12 month contract position with the opportunity for ongoing employment
A market-competitive salary with above award wages
Discounted care for your own child/children
Why Join Us?
Work-life balance: Our operating hours are 7:00am to 6:00pm, with after-hours cleaners, so you can focus on all the fun stuff!
A culture of joy: Join a supportive team that laughs, works hard, and celebrates together and is supported by a committed Board of Management.
Engaged community: With the growing local area, you will be at the heart of an exciting, passionate community, where you can contribute to the growth and development of the area and its families.
How to Apply:
Ready to bring your passion, drive, and expertise to a centre that feels like family?
Unlock job insights
Salary match Number of applicants Skills match
Your application will include the following questions:
Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia? How many years' experience do you have as a centre director? Do you have a current Working With Children (WWC) Check? Do you have professional child care experience? Have you worked in a role which requires a sound understanding of the early years learning framework? How many years of people management experience do you have? Have you worked in a role which requires a sound understanding of the National Quality Framework? Which of the following First Aid accreditations do you currently hold?
#J-18808-Ljbffr
📌 Centre Director
🏢 Swan Hill Early Learning
📍 Swan Hill