Join a Purpose-Driven Organisation as our People and Culture Lead

Location: Thomastown, VIC - on the lands of the Wurundjeri People
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

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.

Only applications submitted via our website will be considered.
Please include a Cover letter outlining the position title and response addressing the selection criteria & a copy of the Curriculum Vitae. To view full Position Description or to apply, please visit the Kids First website at https://kidsfirst.recruitmenthub.com.au/Careers/

For inquiries about the position:

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

Email: marcella@kidsfirstaustralia.org.au