ABOUT HARCOURT VALLEY COMMUNITY HOUSE

The Harcourt Valley Community House (HVCH) is a values-driven community not for profit governed by the Standing Committee under the auspice of Harcourt Progress Association (HPA) and is a member of NHVic. HVCH works within in a community development framework, encouraging change and growth to improve the social, environmental, and cultural infrastructures within the local community and individuals.

We are going through a period of renewal and recovery in the wake of the Jan 2026 fire and are seeking a senior experienced manager to support our vision as we strive to meet changing needs and long-term recovery for those in the local Harcourt community, through providing programs and services to enhance well-being, community involvement and connectedness.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Classification: NHACE collective agreement (SCHADS) Level 7 – Salary Packaging available
• Hours: Temporary Part-time 25 hours per week (6-month contract)
• Location: Based at Station Street, Harcourt
• Meaningful Impact: Opportunity to make a real difference by supporting the Harcourt community

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Manager is responsible to the Harcourt Valley Community House Standing Committee (the Committee) for the operation, management, and development of Harcourt Valley Community House (HVCH) and for ensuring that HVCH is operated in accordance with the Committee’s values and the service agreements with funding bodies.

This position requires a fundamental understanding of the role of community organisations (particularly in the context of Neighbourhood House settings), proven organisational ability with experience of leading and managing a community organisation, a command of community development principles and skills, and an ability to develop and communicate policy and to advocate for the local community.

In addition, previous experience in, and an understanding of, communities going through natural disasters and recovery management would be highly desirable but not essential.

Our Values:

Respect:

We value the inherent dignity and equality of all people regardless of their circumstances.

Justice:

We value equality of opportunity, social inclusion and consistency of outcome for all.

Commitment:

We value our responsibility to the community and the environment.

Integrity:

We value consistency between word and deed.

Accountability

We value the acceptance of personal responsibility.

Co-operation:

We value working together towards our goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the expansion of programs, activities and community participation at HVCH through consultation, networking and strategically engaging volunteers when appropriate to enhance operational efficiency.
• Effectively promote HVCH and its programs.
• Lead and manage volunteers at the house using best-practice methods. This includes establishing processes to maximise the effective involvement of volunteers in all relevant aspects of HVCH.
• Manage centre facilities, bookings and venue hire arrangements, including liaising with internal users and external clients to confirm availability, prepare agreements, and ensure appropriate use of spaces.
• Lead the development and implementation of the HVCH strategic plan, ensuring alignment with organisational vision, community needs, and funding priorities to support sustainable growth and continuous improvement.
• Work with the Committee to develop and monitor the annual budget.
• Lobby state government for HVCH to receive ongoing Neighbourhood House Coordination Program (NHCP) funding.
• Coordinate and oversee external contractors including but not limited to maintenance, cleaning, and capital improvements, ensuring compliance with VicTrack tenancy agreement, organisational policies, safety standards, while maintaining clear communication and accurate records.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with local, regional, and state-wide organisations.
• Develop submissions for funding to achieve strategic goals and plans as required.
• Proactively manage relationships with funding bodies, ensuring timely submission of reports and other requirements.

WHAT YOU BRING

You are a practical, adaptable and community minded leader who understands that community work is nuanced — not black and white. You are just as comfortable thinking strategically as you are rolling up your sleeves to solve problems on the ground.

Next Steps

To submit your application please click 'Apply Now' by the closing date.

For more information, contact Jeanette Teague on 0438 579 987 or email [email protected] using the subject line: Community House Manager - Harcourt enquiry via EthicalJobs.

See attached full position description for essential and desirable Selection Criteria.