CELA Early Education Financial Management Specialist – Contractor

Flexible consultancy role for financial management skills in the ECEC sector.

Are you an accountant or finance manager who excels in budgeting in an early childhood context?

Do you want to use your expertise to strengthen the sustainability and impact of Early Childhood Education and Care services? 

We are seeking people with strong budgeting and business management, ideally with knowledge of the ECEC sector. With your expertise in applying financial and operational knowledge across a range of ECEC contexts, you’ll guide service leaders and committees in building high-quality, sustainable services. 

About the role  

  • Contractor position with flexible, ad-hoc workflow (based on your expertise and demand). 

  • The volume of work will vary depending on client demand and project needs, offering flexibility while providing opportunities to contribute your expertise across a range of services. 

  • The role offers flexibility to maintain your current working commitments while providing opportunities to contribute your financial management through CELA’s consultancy services. 

  • Capability in one or more: Reviewing and/or developing financial systems; Business planning; Financial modelling and Budgeting. 

About you 

  • Strong background in financial management, reporting, analysis, and budgeting 

  • Proven experience business planning - developing and implementing organisational strategies that drive sustainable growth 

  • Ability to conduct financial and operational forecasting, scenario planning, and risk analysis 

  • Knowledge of ECEC sector governance, compliance requirements, and funding models 

  • Capacity to support leaders in aligning financial planning with organisational goals 

  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence and support non-financial leaders 

  • High level of attention to detail, analytical thinking, and record keeping 

Requirements

  • Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Commerce, Business Administration, or a related discipline 

Required documentation

  • Professional indemnity & public liability insurance 

  • It is a condition of employment/engagement with CELA that all staff and contractors hold an up to date Working with Children Check and National Police Check.  National Police Check providers must be accredited by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC).  Adverse information collected via National Police Checks is maintained securely and will be used only where applicable to the role 

How to apply

Send your CV along with a brief cover letter highlighting relevant experience and interest in working with the ECEC sector to rachelho@cela.org.au. 

By CELA 5 Aug, 2026

Meaningful transitions: Embracing the magic between moments

Transitions are not just about moving children from one activity to the next. At Jumbunna Community Preschool and Early Intervention Centre, transitions have become learning opportunities that build independence and a self-regulation toolkit.

Find out how music, visuals, emotional check-ins and children’s interests are helping create calmer, more meaningful transitions.

By CELA 8 Jul, 2026

More than a break: Why outdoor learning matters

Outdoor environments are increasingly recognised as rich learning spaces, not just an opportunity for ‘free play’ or a break from indoor routines.

This article explores how some educators are reframing the outdoors as a core part of pedagogy shaped by curiosity, collaboration and engagement with the natural world. 

By Sally_Wilson 6 Jul, 2026

Connecting with autistic children through curiosity and joy 

Strong relationships are at the heart of great early childhood education. For autistic children, connection begins when educators notice strengths, follow interests and create opportunities for joyful, responsive play. 

This article explores how a strengths-based approach can support autistic children to feel seen, valued and ready to learn.

Meet us!

CELA Facilitators

CELA’s Learning and Development facilitators come from a wide range of early education backgrounds, equipping them with practical sector based experience which is second to none. All our facilitators have a common passion for meaningful growth in every educator's practice, resulting in better outcomes for children.

Guild Insurance

CELA’s insurer of choice. Protecting Australian businesses and individuals with tailored insurance products and caring personal service.