About the Role

An exciting opportunity is available for a highly motivated individual with a strong understanding of ECEC, the National Quality Standards, regulation theory and practice to support the Consistent Practice and Support Unit. The Senior Assessment and Rating Officer will support the Regulatory Authority's assessment and rating processes including reviews of an ECEC service's quality rating where it has been requested by the approved provider following an assessment and rating against the NQS. The role will also play a key role in providing policy advice on regulatory practice issues and actively promoting consistent practice within and across VECRA's regional regulatory workforce. 

Key accountabilities will include:   

• undertaking assessment and rating reviews in line with the National Law and Regulations and the relevant ACECQA guidelines and processes, including reviewing the evidence and information provided, preparing decision documentation, and making recommendations to the relevant delegate 

• identifying opportunities for continuous improvement within and across the VECRA regional workforce in relation to regulatory best practice and emerging operational policy issues, including around the assessment and rating process 

• preparing a range of high-quality written materials for internal and external audiences, including assessment and rating documentation (e.g. decision notices), practice guidance, presentations and communications to stakeholders 

• engaging with internal and external stakeholders on complex regulatory matters 

• working collaboratively with the team and with colleagues across VECRA central and regional teams  

• tracking and monitoring of work priorities to ensure completion within the required timeframes  

• other duties as directed by the Manager.  

This is a full time, ongoing VPS5 position based at 200 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne, reporting to the Senior Manager, Consistent Practice and Support Unit. From time to time, the role may be required to work from one of the VECRA regional offices. 

About the Branch

Located across the four VECRA regions and the central office, the Operations Branch manages and supports nine area-based regional teams to deliver VECRA's core frontline regulatory work. The regional teams comprise authorised officers, compliance officers and support staff who assess and rate National Quality Framework (NQF) services against the National Quality Standard (NQS), conduct inspections to monitor compliance with the National Law, Children's Services Act and Child Safe Standards, as well as investigating alleged non-compliances. Regional teams engage with the sector to support, educate and guide providers of early childhood services.

Centrally, the Branch supports the regulatory workforce through capability and capacity building activities and the provision of policy advice, resources and training to address emerging regulatory practice issues and promote consistent practice. The Branch also supports the leadership of the Regulatory Authority.

About the Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA)

The Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA) is the statutory authority responsible for regulating early childhood education and care (ECEC) services in Victoria. VECRA works to ensure the safety, wellbeing and development of children through effective regulation, compliance, quality assessment and continuous improvement across the early childhood sector. 

VECRA plays a critical system management role, providing guidance, oversight and assurance to the sector while supporting high-quality early childhood education outcomes for Victorian children and families

Attributes

To be successful in this role, you will:  

• have demonstrated knowledge of the National Law and Regulations, NQS and assessment and rating process, including administrative processes and requirements, and national approved learning frameworks. 

• have excellent critical thinking and problem solving skills, sound judgement and the ability to apply guidelines and frameworks consistently. 

• have excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate detailed information clearly, accurately and professionally. 

• have strong planning and organising skills, including the ability to use systems and processes to manage work priorities and meet timelines. 

• have exceptional interpersonal skills, including the ability to establish positive relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders.

• be able to confidently manage difficult and complex stakeholder issues, including conflict resolution skills and the ability to influence and negotiate effectively with a range of stakeholders.

• be able to work independently under limited guidance to prioritise competing demands and meet timelines.

• have strong IT skills, be able to navigate a range of computer systems and follow business rules and guidelines. 

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

Desirable: Relevant qualifications in early childhood education and regulation.

Essential: Successful applicants will be required to hold a valid Victorian Working with Children's Check and Victorian driver's licence. 

How to apply

Applicants are encouraged to include a Curriculum Vitae and a Cover letter addressing the key selection criteria provided in the position description.

Further Information

For more details regarding this position please see attached position description for the capabilities to address in application.

VECRA 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 VECRA, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the VECRA website and our Diversity and Inclusion page.

Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.

Information about VECRA's operations and employment conditions can be located on the VECRA website.

For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Karen Morley, Senior Manager, Consistent Practice and Support, via Karen.Morley@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 VECRA 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 24/02/2026