Full Time Fixed Term position

• Location: Thomastown, VIC - on the lands of the Wurundjeri People
• Employment Type: 12-month contract role
• Classification:
• Reports to: General Manager - People and Culture

About Kids First

At Kids First, we've been at the heart of community care in Victoria since 1896. As a leading child and family services provider and early years education specialist, we deliver innovative, evidence-based programs that support healing, strengthen families, and empower children to thrive.

We're proud of our legacy - and even prouder of our people. Our inclusive and values-driven culture supports every team member to make a meaningful impact. Every. Single. Day.

About the Role

We're looking for a dynamic and experienced People and Culture Lead to drive the delivery of high-quality HR services across Kids First. This is a key leadership role that will shape our people strategy, foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture, and support the growth and development of our workforce.

You'll work closely with the General Manager - People and Culture and the Director of People, Culture and Performance, while leading a small, passionate team of HR professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Culture & Engagement: Champion initiatives that enhance employee experience, wellbeing, and retention.
• Talent Development: Strengthen graduate, student, and succession pathways to build the workforce of the future.
• Employee Relations: Provide expert advice and coaching on ER matters, performance management, and change processes.
• Leadership: Mentor and develop the P&C team and implement a consistent, high-quality HR service delivery framework.
• HR Operations: Oversee the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, appraisals, and exit processes.
• Compliance & Policy: Ensure HR policies align with legislation and best practice, and support WorkCover and injury management.

What You'll Bring

• Tertiary qualifications in HR, Psychology, Organisational Development or a related field.
• Proven HR generalist experience, including employee relations and policy development.
• Strong working knowledge of employment law, industrial agreements, and HR systems (HumanForce experience desirable).
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• A genuine commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural safety.

Why Work with Us?

At Kids First, we don't just talk about values—we live them. Our HEART values shape everything we do, including how we care for our people.

Here's what you can look forward to:

Flexible work options - including hybrid work and purchased leave to boost your annual leave.

Extra paid leave - enjoy time off between Christmas and New Year, plus a dedicated wellbeing day.

Wellbeing support - receive up to $100 through our I HEART ME initiative to invest in your health—on us!

Salary packaging benefits - access up to $15,900 pre-tax to increase your take-home pay, plus novated leasing.

Portable long service leave - transfer your accruals across eligible sectors.

Career development - benefit from a professional development budget and ongoing support.

Staff Wellbeing Program - access resources and initiatives that support your mental, emotional, and physical health.

Ready to Apply?

If you're passionate about people, culture, and purpose—and want to lead meaningful change - we'd love to hear from you.

For inquiries about the position:

Name/Title: Michael Arcella (General Manager People & Culture)

Email: marcella@kidsfirstaustralia.org.au

Kids First is an Equal Opportunity employer that respects and values diversity and inclusion. Kids First welcomes everyone to apply, regardless of age, ethnicity, cultural background, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, and physical ability.

Kids First is a Child Safe Organisation, employment is conditional on satisfactory referee checks, a current Working With Children Check, National Criminal History check, proof of the right to work in Australia and a pre-employment medical (if applicable).