Avenue Neighbourhood House is a community-based not-for-profit organisation that provides inclusive, locally responsive services and programs. Our offerings include an Early Learning Centre (ELC), a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) offering adult education and youth programs and a broad range of Community Development initiatives.

The Board of Governance is responsible for the strategic direction, oversight, and good governance of the organisation. Our main purpose is to help people in need by providing support to those experiencing poverty, illness, hardship, or other challenges. We focus mostly on helping people in the Whitehorse City Council area, while also encouraging compassion and care in the local community.

Key Responsibilities

Governance and Strategy

• Participate in setting and monitoring the strategic direction of the organisation.
• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance in areas such as early childhood education (ELC), vocational education and training (RTO), and community development.
• Review and approve key policies, budgets, and business plans.

Financial Oversight

• Understand and monitor the financial position and sustainability of the organisation.
• Approve the annual budget and review financial reports.

Risk and Compliance

• Ensure the organisation identifies and manages key risks.
• Uphold child safety standards and ensure compliance with ELC and RTO regulatory frameworks.

Support to the CEO

• Work collaboratively with the CEO, offering support and guidance as required.
• Provide oversight without interfering in day-to-day management.

Advocacy and Promotion

• Act as an ambassador for the organisation.
• Support fundraising and community engagement efforts as appropriate.

Board Participation

• Attend and actively participate in Board and committee meetings.
• Participate in committees or working groups as required.
• Contribute to the evaluation and continuous improvement of the Board’s effectiveness.

Key Selection Criteria

• Commitment to the mission and values of the Neighbourhood House sector.
• Understanding of governance principles and a willingness to contribute to board responsibilities.
• Experience or interest in one or more of the organisation’s key service areas (ELC, RTO, Community Programs).
• High level of integrity, sound judgement, and collaborative decision-making.
• Sufficient financial understanding to make informed decisions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Availability to attend monthly Board meetings (and Committee meetings where appointed).

Desirable Attributes

• Experience in not-for-profit governance, community development, education, finance, law, human resources, or social services.
• Prior experience on Boards or at a Senior Executive level.
• Familiarity with compliance obligations under the Education and Care Services National Law, Standards for RTOs, and/or ACNC regulations.

Time Commitment Approximately 6 hours per month, including meeting preparation, attendance, and follow-up actions. Committee members and Chairperson will be required to spend more time. Such appointments are voluntary.

Child Safety Commitment Avenue Neighbourhood House is committed to child safety. We require all Board members to adhere to our Child Safe Policy and undergo relevant screening checks, including a Working with Children Check which includes a National Police Check.

To Apply Please include a brief CV (1 page) outlining your qualifications, professional or community background, prior Board experience and two referees.