Community Development Officer

Help build stronger communities through the power of play

Are you passionate about supporting families with young children and creating connected, thriving communities? Playgroup WA is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Playgroup Development Officer to help establish, promote and support community playgroups across the South West and Great Southern. This is a work from home role and includes regular travel to playgroups in the region.

About the Role

As a Development Officer, you will work closely with families, volunteers, community groups and stakeholders to strengthen playgroup networks and build community capacity. You will support the growth and sustainability of community playgroups.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the establishment and promotion of community playgroups across designated areas of WA.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with playgroup committees, volunteers and families.
• Provide advice, mentoring, training and operational support to community playgroups.
• Promote playgroups to parents, community organisations, networking groups and service providers.
• Contribute to the development of resources, strategies and initiatives that strengthen playgroup sustainability.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with external stakeholders and community partners.

About You

You are a proactive and community-focused professional who enjoys working with families and supporting grassroots community initiatives. Essential Qualifications

• Qualification in Community Development, Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Social Work, Education, Health Promotion or a related discipline (or equivalent demonstrated experience).

 Essential Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated experience in community development, community capacity building or community engagement.
• Experience working collaboratively with families and children aged 0–5 years in community, early childhood or family support settings.
• Sound understanding of child development, play-based learning and the role of parents and caregivers in supporting children’s development.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with community groups, volunteers, service providers and other stakeholders, with strong communication and facilitation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate and deliver community-based programs, projects or events that respond to identified community needs.
• Strong organisational, administrative and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work independently.
• Well-developed written communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, maintain accurate records and contribute to data collection and evaluation requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to use organisational systems and databases.

Desirable

• Experience supporting volunteer-led organisations, committees or community groups.
• Experience working with Aboriginal families and communities and/or culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) communities.
• Experience working with children with disability, developmental delay or additional needs and their families.
• Knowledge of the Western Australian early years sector, including local community services and referral pathways.
• Experience developing partnerships with local government, schools, health services or community organisations.
• Knowledge of child safeguarding principles and contemporary child-safe practice.
• Understanding of community playgroup operations and the community development model that underpins them.

Mandatory Requirements

• Current Working with Children Check.
• Current Police Clearance.
• Current WA Driver’s Licence.
• Reliable vehicle available for work-related travel (mileage reimbursement provided).

Why Join Playgroup WA?

• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
• Work with a respected not-for-profit organisation committed to supporting communities across Western Australia.
• Enjoy a varied role combining community engagement, event delivery, stakeholder relationships and capacity building.
• Be part of a supportive and passionate team dedicated to creating positive outcomes for families.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your current resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, addressing the key selection criteria to recruitment@playgroupwa.com.au.

Join us in helping Western Australian families connect, learn and thrive through play.