Defence School Mentor

Commencing January 2027 

Victory Lutheran College is seeking a passionate and motivated Defence School Mentor (DSM) to support and connect Defence students, families and the College community.

As the Defence School Mentor, you will support Australian Defence Force (ADF) students and their families within our College community. The role is responsible for delivering the Defence School Mentor Program, providing practical assistance, connection and wellbeing support as Defence students and families navigate enrolment, transition, relocation, deployment, parental absence, reunion and adjustment to school life. This position is funded by the Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) Branch of the Commonwealth Department of Defence.

POSITION DETAILS

• Contract, part-time position (0.34 FTE / 15 hours per week).
• Hours may be worked across the week by agreement, with a focus on meeting the needs of Defence students and the requirements of the Defence School Mentor Program.
• School Officer Grade B classification. 

ABOUT THE ROLE

Supporting Defence students and their families from Foundation to Year 12, you will help foster a strong sense of belonging, connection and continuity within the College community. Working collaboratively with families, College staff, the Wellbeing team and Defence support services, you will provide practical assistance and wellbeing support to students and families navigating the unique challenges associated with Defence life.

You will:

• Build positive relationships with Defence students through regular face-to-face check-ins.
• Support the successful transition of Defence students and families into and out of the College community.
• Organise and facilitate activities and events that encourage connection, belonging and peer support.
• Provide social and emotional support to Defence students experiencing challenges associated with relocation, deployment or parental absence.
• Support Defence families by providing information and guidance about the College environment and available support services.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, the Wellbeing team and Defence support services to identify and respond to student needs.
• Promote understanding among staff and the broader school community of the Defence lifestyle and its impact on students and families.
• Contribute to the ongoing delivery of the Defence School Mentor Program, including participation in relevant training, meetings and reporting requirements.
• Model the Christian values and ethos of the College.

ABOUT YOU

You are a welcoming and relationship-focused professional who:

• Has a minimum of 12 months' experience in a similar educational support role.
• Has experience with, or an understanding of, the Australian Defence Force lifestyle and the unique experiences of Defence families.
• Demonstrates well-developed communication and interpersonal skills that create a welcoming and supportive environment.
• Builds positive and collaborative relationships with students, families, staff and external support services.
• Is committed to supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of young people.
• Understands the importance of confidentiality and can securely manage personal information relating to students and families.
• Works effectively as part of a collaborative team.
• Supports the Christian ethos and values of Victory Lutheran College.

Applicants must hold a current Victorian Employee Working with Children Check (or be eligible to obtain one).

WHAT WE OFFER

At Victory, we invest in our people because we know thriving staff lead to thriving students.

We offer:

• Highly competitive remuneration and conditions. 
• A supportive and collaborative culture.
• Extensive wellbeing and professional support.
• Structured induction and mentoring.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Fitness Passport access.
• Staff tuition fee discounts.

HOW TO APPLY

1. REVIEW: Review the Application Package - Defence School Mentor on our website Defence School Mentor | Victory Lutheran College

2. EMAIL: Email your application directly to employment@vlc.vic.edu.au with the subject line Confidential - Defence School Mentor

Include the following (in MS Word or PDF format):

• a covering letter (no more than 1 page);
• your Resume/CV detailing employment history;

APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 9am Friday 9 October 2026

Child Safety and Requirements

Victory Lutheran College is committed to being a Child Safe organisation. All staff are required to adhere to the College’s Child Safety Code of Conduct and policies.

The successful applicant will be required to hold:

• Current VIT registration or Victorian Employee Working with Children Check
• First Aid, CPR and Anaphylaxis qualifications (or a willingness to obtain these)

VICTORY IS A CHILD SAFE COMMUNITY

Statement of Faith

Victory Lutheran College is a Lutheran school and offers a Lutheran education to all, regardless of background. The College recognises that each person is uniquely positioned to be a blessing in the lives of others, and that leaders have particular influence over those that they are entrusted to lead. All Staff are expected to model and promote a life lived in accordance with the College’s Lutheran faith, in word and action.