Support Children to Thrive from the Start

At Meli, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive—regardless of their abilities or background. As an Early Childhood Practitioner in our Early Childhood Approach team, you’ll play a vital role in supporting children under 9 years of age who have developmental delay or disability. You’ll work closely with families to build their confidence and capacity, helping them navigate services and create inclusive environments where their children can flourish. Whether you're a new graduate or an experienced practitioner, this is a chance to apply your allied health expertise in a meaningful way—within a supportive, multidisciplinary team that values collaboration, innovation, and strong community connections. Together, we’re creating a fairer, safer, and more inclusive future for every child.

About the Role

As an Early Childhood Practitioner – Early Childhood Approach, you will:

• Deliver short-term early supports and coaching to build parental capacity and foster child development
• 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

Position Details

• Multiple Fixed term, full time opportunities until 30 June 2027
• $101,032 p/a + Super + Salary Packaging
• To view the Position Description, please visit www.meli.org.au/careers

Why Work with Us?

At Meli, we offer more than just a job—we provide a platform to thrive, grow, and make an impact. Our Employee Value Proposition (EVP) includes:

• 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

We value individuals who bring dedication, empathy, and expertise to their roles. To succeed in this position, you will have:

• Qualification in Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy or Psychology or equivalent and demonstrated background in supporting the inclusion of children with disability, developmental delay or concern in mainstream and community settings.
• 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
• Current Victoria Driver’s Licence

Join Our Commitment

Meli is committed to providing a child-safe environment. We have zero tolerance of any abuse or maltreatment of children. Our recruitment practices reflect our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of young people in our care.

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 [email protected] to discuss how we can best support you.

How to Apply

We’re excited to hear from you! Please submit your application, including a résumé and addressing the key selection criteria in the application form. Applications close 11:59pm Friday 15 August 2025.

For more information about the position please contact Carly Mitchell, Team Leader Early Childhood, on 0490 805 076

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to inspire change and make a lasting impact, click Apply Now and start your journey with Meli.

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