Centre Manager | Parap
NEW Centre Opening November 2026

About the Role

We're seeking an experienced and values-driven Centre Manager to lead the opening of Journey Early Learning Parap, our brand-new purpose-built centre opening in November 2026.

This is a rare opportunity to be involved before the doors open, helping onboard your team, establish centre operations, and create a positive workplace culture from day one.

Working closely with Journey's leadership team, you'll lead all aspects of centre operations, quality, and team development while building strong connections with children, families, and the local community.

Our Centre

Journey Early Learning Parap is a brand-new, purpose-built 98 place centre located in one of Darwin's most vibrant family communities.

Designed to inspire learning, connection, and wellbeing, the centre will offer modern learning environments and engaging play spaces that support children's development through play-based learning.

As our Centre Manager, you'll have the unique opportunity to shape the centre's identity, build a high-performing team, and create a welcoming environment where children, families, and educators can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

Ensure a high level of health & safety standards are maintained at all times
Managing the performance and success of your centre
Management of daily operations, budgets, wages, rostering, occupancy
Lead, coach, develop and support the professional development of your team
Developing strong relationships with families and the community
Maintain compliance with all relevant regulations
Advocating for the rights of every child within your centre




Implementation and evaluation of quality programs that support the development of all children.
About You

Minimum 2 years' experience as a Centre Manager
Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care or higher (ACECQA recognised)
Demonstrated ability to lead high-quality outcomes and centre performance
Strong people leadership and communication skills
Experience building, developing, and retaining engaged teams
Passion for creating positive workplace culture
Calm, confident, and values-led leadership style
Why You'll Love Journey

Opportunities to open a brand-new centre don't come along often.

At Journey, you'll have the support, resources, and autonomy to make your mark from the very beginning. You'll also have access to ongoing professional learning and our 4C's Leadership Development Program, designed to strengthen your leadership capability and support your growth opportunities.

In addition, we offer:

Competitive Centre Manager incentive and bonus scheme
The opportunity to recruit and build your team from the ground up
Leadership development and future career progression opportunities
Childcare discounts*
Paid birthday leave and anniversary recognition
Mental Health First Aid and Employee Assistance Program
Strong operational, HR, and quality support from our broader Journey ecosystem
*Terms and conditions apply.

Safeguarding Children

At Journey Early Learning, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our top priority. We are committed to safeguarding children and creating environments where every child feels safe, secure, and supported.

📌 Centre Manager Parap (Darwin)
🏢 Journey Early Learning
📍 Darwin