Manager, Kindergarten Inclusion Policy and Reform

About the role

The Manager, Kindergarten Inclusion Policy and Reform Unit leads a team designing and delivering evidence-based reforms that strengthen the inclusion of children with disability across Victoria's kindergarten system. Drawing on a two-year research program, the role establishes a system-wide capability uplift program for kindergarten teachers and services and oversees its implementation, monitoring and evaluation. It works closely with the Inclusion Programs Unit so that new reforms complement existing supports and reflect operational experience.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a team to design and deliver reforms that strengthen inclusion of children with disability in kindergartens
• Establish a system-wide capability uplift program for teachers and services and oversee its implementation, monitoring and evaluation
• Work with the Inclusion Programs Unit to ensure reforms complement existing inclusion supports
• Lead complex policy analysis and build stakeholder relationships
• Advise senior decision-makers on emerging issues, including changes arising from the NDIS Reform

Required profile

• Tertiary qualification in public policy, early childhood or a relevant field
• Experience leading teams responsible for significant reform projects in high-profile and sensitive contexts
• Ability to identify and evaluate issues affecting policy reform and program design
• Ability to articulate interdependent streams of work into a clear work program with success measures, roles and responsibilities, including governance processes to manage risk
• Collaborative approach with internal and external stakeholders, including experts in the design process
• Ability to formulate and communicate policy options clearly to senior decision-makers

This is a fixed-term position available until 30 June 2029. Applications close 23 November 2026 and must include a resume (no more than 2 pages) and a cover letter responding to the selection criteria (no more than 3 pages). Preferred applicants may be asked to complete a police check.