Community Development Officer (Early Years and Children)

Permanent

Full-time (average of 38 hours per week)

This position was recently advertised in August and previous applicants are not required to reapply.

Are you an experienced community development professional who can strengthen local services, build cross-sector partnerships and turn evidence into strategic action?

We’re seeking a Community Development Officer to lead the Early Years, Children and Families portfolio with focus on stakeholder engagement, capacity building, research, planning and advocacy.

What You’ll Do

• Build Capacity Across the Sector - Empower organisations, service providers and community groups through collaboration, partnership development and sector-strengthening initiatives
• Facilitate Networks & Partnerships - Bring stakeholders together, nurture meaningful relationships and lead networks that drive shared outcomes for children and families
• Coordinate Sector Development Initiatives - Plan and facilitate professional forums, community events and learning opportunities that connect, inspire and build community resilience
• Lead Research & Gap Analysis - Identify emerging needs, service gaps and trends using data, community insights and stakeholder engagement to inform local priorities
• Champion Advocacy Opportunities - Translate evidence into action by supporting advocacy efforts that improve services, influence policy and strengthen outcomes for families and children.

What You'll Bring

• Demonstrated experience in community development, social planning, human services, public policy or a related strategic field
• Strong community development and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience building collaborative partnerships and networks
• Excellent facilitation, communication and event management abilities
• Analytical skills to undertake research, needs assessments and gap analysis
• A passion for creating equitable opportunities for children, young people and families

Why You Should Apply

• Always Something Different: Dive into a vibrant calendar packed with exciting community events, impactful programs, and innovative projects that keep your work fresh and rewarding.
• Put Your Skills on Display: Use your expertise to lead the planning, delivery, and evaluation of early years and children initiatives, turning great ideas into standout community programs and events.
• People Person: Build strong partnerships and become a trusted go-to for community and key stakeholders, ensuring seamless communication and strong collaboration.
• Team Player with Drive: Be a key contributor to a positive, inclusive team culture, stepping up where needed to keep things running seamlessly.
• Master Multi-Tasker: Bring your excellent time management and multitasking skills to stay adaptable, focused, and calm in a fast-moving environment.
• Create Real Impact: Prepare funding submissions, monitor budgets, and communicate social outcomes through reports and bulletins.
• Grow With Us: Join a supportive, forward-thinking team that genuinely values your professional development and invests in your growth.

What We Are Offering

• A gross annual salary commencing at $94,367 per annum
• Option to work a 19-day month or a 9-day fortnight
• Option to work from home one day per week
• Two additional paid days of leave per annum
• 12% superannuation with the opportunity to co-contribute up to a matching 5%
• A variety of health and wellbeing programmes including a physical health reimbursement subsidy payment of up to $200 per annum, free flu vaccinations, free skin cancer checks, mental health programs and Employee Assistance Provider (EAP) services
• Training and development opportunities including paid study leave and study fees
• Salary packaging opportunities for motor vehicles

How To Apply

An information package, including the position description and selection criteria, is available on our website. You will be prompted to address each criterion during the online application process.

Applications must be submitted by 12pm, Monday 19 October 2026

The City reserves the right to close applications early should it consider a suitable pool of applicants has been received. If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply as soon as possible.

This process may be used to fill future similar permanent or fixed-term positions that may become available in the City during the next 12 months.

If you identify as a person with disability and require support submitting your application, or adjustments throughout the recruitment process please contact the Recruitment Team via email at jobs@rockingham.wa.gov.au or phone 08 9528 0333. We’re happy to discuss options to assist you e.g. we can provide alternate formats for application forms, or alternate methods of applying.

The City of Rockingham encourages candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds, including First Nations people, people living with disability and people who speak a first language other than English.