The Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) is a nationwide initiative that measures the development of children in their first year of full-time school, providing vital data to inform policies and programs that support early childhood wellbeing. At The Kids Research Institute Australia, the Early Years Systems Evidence team leads research that strengthens early childhood systems and translates evidence into practice. Working closely with government and community partners, the team supports initiatives like the AEDC to improve outcomes for children and families across Australia.

The Opportunity

As a Research Assistant or Research Officer, you will play a key role in supporting the effective coordination, implementation and delivery of the ‘State and Territory AEDC Coordinator Support’ component of the three-year AEDC contract. Reporting to the Head of Early Years Systems Evidence and working closely with the Project Lead and senior team members.

Your responsibilities will include:

Supporting project coordination, progress tracking, and timely reporting to stakeholders.

Assisting with event and training coordination, and monitoring project deliverables.

Preparing clear and engaging research materials, reports, and presentations.

Serving as a central point of contact for stakeholders and partners.

Managing a dedicated email inbox and providing high-quality responses.

Curating monthly knowledge-sharing updates based on current research.

Promoting the AEDC program at national conferences and events.

This is an ongoing, full-time role based in Adelaide, SA.

About You

We are seeking a proactive and collaborative team member who brings the following:

A degree in psychology, social work, allied health, public health or related discipline.

Strong verbal and written communication skills, including report writing experience.

Excellent organisational skills with attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines.

Interest in child development research and its practical application.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project coordination tools.

Desirable skills include:

Experience working in a research, academic, medical or public policy environment.

Project coordination or administrative experience in complex environments.

Experience supporting or minuting professional meetings.

We are driving inclusion and diversity as part of the way we work and embrace the diverse career and life experiences of our staff. If you meet a number of the requirements (and not all), we encourage you to submit your application. We also encourage you to address any career disruptions (if applicable) you may have had in your cover letter.

About Us

Our aim is to create a workplace where people are respected and encouraged to fulfil their potential. We encourage a workforce that is innovative, eager to acquire knowledge and enhance skills; we embrace all employee differences, foster a culture that supports diversity and inclusion, and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations where required.

Some of our staff benefits include:

Additional annual leave over Christmas and Easter

Save on tax and increase your take home pay by salary packaging up to $15,899 of Living Expenses and up to $2,650 on Entertainment Benefits each FBT year.

Additional annual leave over Christmas and Easter.

Paid Parental Leave

Early and Mid-Career Researcher Mentoring Program.

Various initiatives providing strategic support to researchers, including funding support.

Extensive health and wellbeing program with weekly events.

Flexible work options and hybrid working.

Modern offices and end of trip facilities, including sit to stand desks.

Access to Corporate Health Insurance.

Staff purchasing discounts including travel, IT Hardware and stationery.

How to Apply

If you think that this is the right role and an exciting new challenge for you, please click on 'Apply Now' to navigate to our Career Site to view the Job Description and submit your application.

Your cover letter (no more than 2 pages) should specifically address your skills and experience outlined in the “About You” section above.

Applications will only be accepted through our career portal. If you are experiencing technical difficulties with our online portal, please direct your query to [email protected]
If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, please direct your inquiries to [email protected].

For more information about the role please contact: Yasmin Harman-Smith, Head, Early Years Systems Evidence.

Contact Email: [email protected]

Closing Date: 8th August 2025 at 11:59 PM - The Kids Research Institute reserve the right to hire prior to the closing date.