Mary MacKillop Today is an international and community development organisation with a long-standing commitment to supporting and empowering people who face marginalisation in communities within Australia and Overseas.
Mary MacKillop Today walks alongside people and communities at the margins, in Australia and Internationally, in the spirit of Saint Mary MacKillop. We create opportunities for self-determination through learning for life so that all might flourish. Mary MacKillop Today is a ministry of the Sisters of Saint Joseph which implements programs that provide education, in all its forms, in Timor-Leste, Australia, Peru and Fiji. We work in the spirit of Saint Mary MacKillop and Rev Julian Tenison Woods, inspired by their faith, legacy and grounded practical work.
Mary MacKillop Today is a signatory of the Australian Council for International Development’s Code of Conduct and is accredited with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Consequently, we have a high degree of accountability and transparency. Mary MacKillop Today is committed to protecting the rights of children and vulnerable adults everywhere we work, and preferred candidates are subject to child safe recruitment screening.
Please see our current vacancies below:
Australia Programs Senior Manager
We are seeking a passionate and experienced community development senior manager to build our Australia programs. This role is a one year contract, with potential for ongoing employment.
Reporting to the Director of Programs, the Australian Programs Senior Manager supports a geographically dispersed team in the implementation of Mary MacKillop Today’s programs throughout Australia. This includes our Financial Inclusion Program delivered through our remote offices in Central-West NSW, our First Nations Scholarships Program, and our programs delivered in partnership with Australian community organisations and higher education providers.
The Australian Programs Senior Manager will be responsible for driving the implementation of Mary MacKillop Today’s Australia Program Strategy, including:
- Developing, implementing, and managing a community development program that incorporates our current No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) delivery; our current Financial Counselling; and a new Financial Literacy component.
- Managing mutually beneficial partnerships that further the strategic priorities of both Mary MacKillop Today and our partner organisations in the Kimberley and Tasmania and in any new locations which emerge.
- Overseeing and providing strategic advice on our Community Grants and First Nations Scholarships Program.
- Developing new partnerships and programs with Australian organisations if opportunities arise.
The Australian Programs Senior Manager will also be responsible for effective team leadership and will also oversee effective program delivery and operations to ensure all programs are high quality and impactful and delivered in alignment with best practice sector standards and contractual requirements.
This position currently has three direct reports. Of these reports, the NILS Team Leader has 6 direct reports across Central-West NSW. This role will require regular travel to Bathurst.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage a geographically dispersed team of staff
- Lead and manage a geographically dispersed team including promoting cross-team learning, effective collaboration, and collegiality.
- Oversee recruitment and performance management of the Australian Programs team including orientation, ongoing supervision, and annual performance reviews.
- Proactively oversee the identification, assessment and management of financial, reputational, and operational risks involved in the Australia Programs.
- Report to the Director of Programs on a regular basis ensuring they are informed of key achievements, challenges and risks associated with all Mary MacKillop Today Australia Programs.
Drive the Strategic Direction and Implementation of the Australian Program
Lead the strategic direction implementation of Mary MacKillop Today’s Australian Program Strategy. This includes:
- Developing, implementing, and managing a Financial Inclusion community development program encompassing NILS, Financial Counselling, and Financial Literacy. This will involve assessing current needs and best practice approaches to financial inclusion to ensure the approach is comprehensive and impactful. It will also involve developing a monitoring, evaluation and learning system to ensure we have established indicators to measure success.
- Providing strategic management and advice to partner organisations in the Kimberley and Tasmania.
- Overseeing and providing strategic advice on our Community Grants and First Nations Scholarships Program.
- Developing new partnerships / programs with Australian organisations if opportunities arise. This will involve leading the scoping, planning and negotiation phase of any new Australian partnership.
- Ensure the Australian Program portfolio is delivered in-line with best practice sector standards and regulatory requirements, particularly regarding safeguarding.
- Drive the continual application of Mary MacKillop Today’s Impact Strategy across the Australian Program.
- Lead the implementation of the organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
- Provide innovative strategic direction to our work with Partners which demonstrates, defines and measures the “value add” of Mary MacKillop Today.
- Proactively represent Mary MacKillop Today to key stakeholders, including major donors, the church and government, to ensure long-term sustainability and growth of the Australian Program.
Ensure the effective delivery of our Australia programs
- Oversee monitoring, learning, and evaluation components of Australia Programs to ensure that success is both defined and measured.
- Manage the Australia Programs team to coordinate all aspects of the project cycle for Australia Programs, including program design, submission of program reports, and preparation of funds transfers according to deadlines.
- Remain abreast of contemporary thinking on community development and implications for Mary MacKillop Today’s program development and implementation.
- Support the timely lodgement of tenders or submissions of applications for program funding or grants to support the growth and sustainability of Mary MacKillop Today’s Australia program.
Other
- Contribute to a cross-organisation thematic area of MMT’s work as directed by your Manager.
Key Competencies
- Extensive experience managing complex community development programs in Australia. Ideally these programs include financial inclusion and involve communities in low income and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Tertiary qualification in Community Development, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Studies, Program Management or a related field.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a team of remotely based staff.
- Strong financial acumen including demonstrated experience in developing and monitoring program budgets, budget forecasting, and financial reporting in alignment with donor and contractual requirements.
- High level of cross-cultural communication skills, and exceptional stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to travel domestically as required, up to 3 days fortnightly.
- Ability to work within and contribute to the Mission and Values of Mary MacKillop Today.
- Adherence to Mary MacKillop Today’s Safeguarding Policy, and willingness to undergo a criminal record check or statutory declaration of local legal equivalent where criminal records checks are unavailable or unreliable.
General Information
This position is a permanent hybrid role based in North Sydney, with regular travel to Bathurst, and reports to the Programs Director of Mary MacKillop Today. The working environment is informal but professional, with very high standards of output and delivery. We are a happy, enthusiastic and energy filled group, with a positive, values-driven culture.
Safeguarding
The Australian Programs Senior Manager is classified as a Contact with Children role. The successful candidate must be willing to undergo child-safe screening and police check on recruitment and then regularly as required.
Applications
If you are an experienced development professional with a commitment to contribute to the mission and values of Mary MacKillop Today, please apply with your resume together with a cover letter responding to the skills required to [email protected]
Applicants must have the right to work in Australia.
Click here to apply online.
Or please email/submit your application to [email protected], including:
- Cover letter responding to the selection criteria; and
- your CV.
Application deadline is 18th January.
Financial Inclusion Support Officer
On-site | Permanent | Part-time | Entry Level
The Financial Inclusion Support Officer will provide administrative support to assist in the processing and assessment of loans Mary MacKillop Today’s NILS Loans program. This is a part-time position (48 hours per fortnight). We currently have 2 position available, one in Bathurst and one in Young/Cowra.
The key tasks that will be performed by the Financial Inclusion Support Officer will include:
- Completing interviews for clients who apply for a NILS loan through completing the Good Shepherd application system and supporting the client to collect and provide the required documentation.
- Make appropriate referrals to other services through providing contact information to the client or completing a referral form.
- Advocating for clients where appropriate, in first instance clients should be referred to specialist providers who are trained in the area the client requires assistance.
- Promoting Mary MacKillop Today to people on low incomes; referral agencies; community; industry; all levels of government; and philanthropic organisations.
- General administrative duties.
- Performing loan process task such as assessing, funding and loan Management.
Key Responsibilities
Agency ethos and values
- Work within the ethos of Mary MacKillop Today thus supporting its strong commitment to social justice.
- Work within a community development framework.
- Respect people, their circumstances, and decisions.
Manage loans enquiries, applications and processes
- Respond to and record initial enquiries.
- Follow up enquiries to assist clients providing their documents.
- Develop a true and accurate budget with applicant.
- Discuss the impact and affordability of the loan.
- Complete verification of information by checking supporting documentation.
- Contact retailers to confirm successful quotes.
- Complete Conditional Loan Agreements and supporting documentation with the customer and explain their rights, obligations and details of how the loan will operate.
- Create loan application and submit with all relevant documentation to the Loan Providers.
- Follow up with clients on any arrears as advised by the Loan Provider.
Networking and Promotion
- Develop comprehensive knowledge of relevant local agencies and support services.
- Raise program awareness, build networks and relationships within the local community (This can involve attending Interagency Meetings, visiting other sites, attending interagency, visiting service providers, attending open days, industry conferences).
- Represent programs externally as necessary.
Reporting and Teamwork
- Attend external meetings and training days as directed by the Team Leader.
- Attend Mary MacKillop Today staff meetings in Bathurst.
- Provide timely reports as required by all internal and external stake holders.
- Provide any additional reports as required by Mary MacKillop Today.
- Attend outreach locations to provide Mary MacKillop Today programs.
Compliance
- Compliance with and observance of all current Mary MacKillop Today Policies, Procedures and Practices, including our Safeguarding Policy.
- Compliance with and observance of all current Good Shepherd NILS policies and procedures.
Selection Criteria
- 1 – 2 years’ minimum experience in office environment.
- Ability to work within and contribute to the Mission and Values of Mary MacKillop Today.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to communicate sensitively and effectively.
- Proficiency in various computer programs, including databases, with a high level of adaptability.
- Demonstrated experience in customer service and client interactions.
- Experience in a fast-paced, high-volume work environment.
- Ability to multitask and pivot between tasks to meet business needs.
- Strong attention to detail with accurate data entry and documentation skills.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Adherence to Mary MacKillop Today’s Safeguarding Policy, and willingness to undergo a criminal record check or statutory declaration of local legal equivalent where criminal records checks are unavailable or unreliable.
How to Apply
Click here to apply online.
Or please email/submit your application to [email protected], including:
- Cover letter responding to the selection criteria; and
- your CV.
Application closes: 11 January 2026. Please note only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
This is classified as a Contact with Children position and therefore subject to child safe recruitment screening. The preferred candidate must be willing to undergo a criminal record check or statutory declaration of local legal equivalent where criminal records checks are unavailable or unreliable. Where possible and as required by Mary MacKillop Today the Candidate must also be willing to undergo a working with children check.
We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees, including those with diverse experiences and abilities, are valued and can thrive. We welcome the unique contributions of candidates from all backgrounds, including but not limited to varied education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, disability, sexual orientation, and beliefs. As advocates for diversity, we believe that innovative thinking comes from varied experiences and strongly encourage candidates of all backgrounds and abilities to apply.
Philanthropy Officer
Permanent | Full-Time | North Sydney (Hybrid Work Options Available)
Build meaningful donor relationships and grow your fundraising career.
We are seeking a passionate and detail-oriented Philanthropy Officer to help nurture the generosity of our mid-level donors and those considering a lasting gift through a bequest. This is a new role contributing to exciting growth in the team.
Reporting to the Philanthropy Manager, you will manage a portfolio of committed donors, fostering meaningful connections through personalised engagement and thoughtful stewardship. You will play a key role in deepening relationships and encouraging increased giving over time. The role also supports the delivery of our bequest program, helping to build strong relationships with supporters who share our mission.
This is a wonderful opportunity for an early-career fundraiser or relationship-focused professional to join a collaborative, mission-driven team and make a tangible impact in the lives of people and communities experiencing disadvantage.
Key Responsibilities
- Steward a portfolio of mid-level donors through personalised engagement across mail, phone, email and digital channels
- Support the planning and delivery of donor journeys, thank-you letters, proposals and impact updates
- Assist with coordinating high-value donor events and supporter briefings
- Contribute to bequest engagement through relationship-building, record-keeping and event support
- Maintain accurate donor records and program data in Salesforce CRM
- Conduct research into trusts and foundations and assist with basic grant submissions
- Support the Philanthropy Manager in delivering income targets and strengthening donor relationships
About You
You are a warm communicator who thrives on building authentic relationships. You’re organised, thoughtful, and excited to contribute to a values-based team. You bring:
- 2–3 years’ min. experience in fundraising, supporter care or relationship-based communication
- Strong interpersonal skills and a genuine interest in engaging donors
- Excellent writing skills and a keen eye for detail
- CRM experience (Salesforce or similar), with sound computer literacy
- A proactive, collaborative and ethical approach to donor care
- An interest in social justice, education, international development or the legacy of Mary MacKillop
Desirable
- Qualifications or training in fundraising, marketing or communications
- Experience working in a not-for-profit or Catholic organisation
- Understanding of bequest fundraising and the donor lifecycle
Why Join Us?
- Make a difference every day through purpose-driven work
- Join a passionate, values-aligned and supportive team
- Enjoy a hybrid work environment
- Grow your skills in philanthropy and ethical fundraising
How to Apply
Click here to apply online.
Or please email your application to [email protected], including:
- a cover letter responding to the selection criteria and,
- your CV.
There is no closing date for this role.
The successful applicant must be willing to undergo a criminal record check or obtain a statutory declaration of local legal equivalent where criminal records checks are unavailable or unreliable. Where possible and as required by Mary MacKillop Today the applicant must also be willing to undergo a Working with Children check. This position required the applicant to have the right to work in Australia.
Please note: only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Safeguarding Commitment
Mary MacKillop Today is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all people who come into contact with our organisation and our programs, especially children and vulnerable adults. Mary MacKillop Today is committed to the rights and protection of all people regardless of their age, gender, nationality, religion or political beliefs.
We explicitly prohibit all forms of harmful behaviour including sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment of any kind against any persons, adult or child. We also prohibit exploitative, neglectful or emotionally abusive treatment of children. Mary MacKillop Today recognises our duty of care to take reasonable steps to ensure people are safe from harm (including victims/survivors and whistle-blowers).
We are committed to demonstrating ongoing and effective leadership, communication, and to providing ongoing training and guidance to all persons within the scope of this Policy in the promotion and implementation of this policy.
Mary MacKillop Today is committed to creating an open and aware environment where concerns for the safety of children and vulnerable adults can be raised and managed in a fair and just manner to protect the rights of all.
