Early Childhood Practitioner

Empower Young Children and Their Families Are you passionate about supporting children with developmental delay or disability? At Meli, we’re looking for dedicated individuals who are ready to make a meaningful impact. In this role, you’ll work closely with families to foster inclusive environments and promote developmental outcomes by supporting families to navigate the National Disability Insurance Scheme and helping them to connect with supports. Whether you're just starting out or bringing years of experience, this is your chance to help every child thrive—within a supportive, multidisciplinary team that values collaboration, diversity, and strong community connections. About the Role As an Early Childhood Practitioner – Early Childhood Approach, you will: Conduct assessments and connect families with appropriate mainstream, community, and NDIS supports Support families to navigate the NDIS, including access applications and understanding funded plans Promote inclusive practices by working with early childhood and community settings to support participation for children of all abilities Deliver short‑term early supports and coaching to build parental capacity and foster child development Position Details Fixed term position starting 2 January 2026 to 31 December 2026 1 FTE working 38 hours per week $101,032 p/a + Super + Salary Packaging Why Work with Us? Supportive Culture : Join a values‑driven organization that fosters collaboration and innovation. Career Growth : Access ongoing Learning & Development opportunities and clear pathways for progression. Financial Benefits : Enjoy salary packaging up to $15,900 per year, enhancing your financial well‑being. Work‑Life Balance : Benefit from flexible ways of working Employee Wellbeing : Participate in employee‑led Inclusion Working Groups, access confidential counselling via our Employee Assistance Program, and enjoy paid parental leave above the government scheme. Diversity and Inclusion : Be part of a team that celebrates diversity and actively supports individuals from all walks of life. What We're Looking For Qualification in Early Childhood Education, Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy or Psychology or equivalent and minimum 5 years’ experience working with children under 9 and their families. Demonstrated strong understanding of child development for children under 9 years of age and the ability to identify the needs of children with developmental delay/concern or disability. Demonstrated strong communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills including the ability to engage with children and their families in a range of settings. Demonstrated strong time management and organisational skills with proven ability to work independently. How to Apply We’re excited to hear from you Please submit your application, including a résumé and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined above. Applications close 11:59 pm, Sunday 7 December 2025. We review applications as they come in and may start chatting with great candidates before the closing date. If you’ve applied for this role before, you’re already on our radar—no need to apply again. For more information about the position please contact Jacinta Vandenberg , Team Leader Early Childhood, on *** Email: ***********@meli.org.au Join Our Commitment Meli is committed to providing a child‑safe environment. We have zero tolerance of any abuse or harm of children. Our recruitment practices reflect our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in our care. All employment with Meli is subject to reference checks, a satisfactory national (and international where relevant) police check, VIT Check (where applicable) and a current Working with Children Check prior to commencement of any paid or unpaid work and/or participation in any service or undertaking. Meli is proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. We actively encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ community members, people living with disabilities, and those looking to return to the workforce. Our usual process includes a written application, a phone call, and a panel interview. If you require adjustments to the recruitment process, please email us at ***********@meli.org.au to discuss how we can best support you. Take the Next Step If you’re ready to inspire change and make a lasting impact, clickApply Now and start your journey with Meli. #J-18808-Ljbffr