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Why work for us

The Municipal Association of Victoria is the peak representative and lobbying body for Victoria's local councils. We were formed in 1879 and the Municipal Association Act 1907 appointed the MAV the official voice of local government in Victoria.

Today, we are a driving and influential force behind a strong and strategically positioned local government sector. Our role is to represent and advocate the interests of local government, lobby for a 'fairer deal' for councils, raise the sector's profile, ensure its long-term security and provide policy advice, strategic advice, capacity building programs and insurance services to local government.

We value diversity and employ young people, mature-age workers, working parents, people with disabilities, and people from Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander and non-English speaking backgrounds.

Our motto is 'pro bono publico' – for the public good. Through our activities, we improve the lives of all Victorians and you can help us in our valuable work.

Our values-based, diverse, inclusive and flexible culture enables our people to bring their whole selves to work and creates an energising working environment, ensuring our people feel good, cared for and proud to work for us.

Our values are – Walk the Talk, Lead with Impact, Service Excellence, Our Smarts, and Care and Responsibility and are embedded across the organisation.

Current vacancy:

CRES Policy Adviser

Help shape a more connected and equitable early years system by turning policy and reform into practical support for Victorian councils.

About Us:

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is the legislated peak body and voice for Victoria’s 79 local councils. We advocate for local government, provide trusted policy and strategic advice, build sector capability and help councils create thriving, inclusive and resilient communities. Our work is guided by a commitment to the public good and by our values: Be Courageous, Be Curious, Share Openly and Unlock Potential.

Position Overview:

We are looking for a thoughtful and collaborative Policy Adviser to help strengthen local government’s role in Victoria’s evolving early years system. You will support the implementation and development of the Central Registration and Enrolment System (CRES), helping councils use it as a connected, equitable and future-ready system capability rather than simply an administrative process.

Reporting to the Manager Community Wellbeing, you will work closely with councils, the Department of Education and sector partners to translate reform directions into practical guidance, coordinate project delivery and generate insights that inform policy, advocacy and statewide improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide forward-looking policy advice on CRES and its connection with broader early years reforms.
  • Coordinate CRES project activities and deliverables under the MAV and Department of Education funding agreement.
  • Support councils with practical guidance on implementation, governance, data use and local system design.
  • Develop clear tools, resources and communications that build capability and strengthen consistent practice across Victoria.
  • Analyse data, research and sector intelligence to shape policy positions, project reporting and system-level improvements.
  • Build trusted relationships and facilitate shared problem-solving across councils, government and early years partners.
  • Support sound governance, accurate documentation and compliance with funding and organisational requirements.

What we offer:

  • A full-time, fixed-term (grant-funded) role until 30 June 2029, based at Level 5, 1 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne.
  • A Remuneration Package of $120,000 per annum, inclusive of 12% superannuation.
  • Purposeful work that contributes to better outcomes for Victorian councils, communities and families.
  • The opportunity to influence how an important early-years system develops across the state.
  • A collaborative role with exposure to local and State Government and a broad network of sector partners.
  • A values-led, diverse, inclusive and flexible workplace where people are supported to contribute, learn and grow.

What you'll bring:

Experience in early childhood policy, local government, community services or reform implementation.

  • Strong policy analysis, research, systems thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • The ability to turn complex policy, evidence and reform directions into practical, accessible advice.
  • Demonstrated project coordination skills, with the ability to manage priorities, timelines, records and reporting.
  • Confidence building relationships and working collaboratively with senior stakeholders across government and the sector.
  • Initiative, sound judgement and adaptability in a dynamic and politically sensitive environment.
  • An understanding of Victorian early years reform, local government’s role, and CRES or comparable service coordination systems.
  • A valid Working with Children Check. A relevant tertiary qualification is desirable.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of policy, reform and practical implementation. Your insights and relationships will help councils navigate change with confidence, strengthen statewide consistency and improve how early years services connect for Victorian families. If you enjoy turning complex challenges into useful solutions and bringing people together around a shared purpose, we would welcome your application.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role via email: humanresources@mav.asn.au

Download the Position Description (PDF - 101KB)

Applications close at 5pm, Thursday, 8 October 2026.

The MAV reserves the right to hire a suitable candidate before the closing date.

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