Treasurer (Voluntary) - Board of Directors

About RNLC 

The River Nile Learning Centre (RNLC) was founded in 2006 to support the African refugee community, and was reestablished under a new entity in 2017. RNLC provides a free, safe and welcoming learning space for women from refugee, asylum seeker and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds whose age, visa or personal circumstances limit their access to government-funded programs. Classes build English language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills, guided by student needs, so students can move into paid work or further education. 

RNLC takes a holistic, trauma-informed approach, recognising that many students have experienced disrupted schooling, displacement or trauma. A dedicated social worker supports students with finance, housing, legal issues, food, transport and childcare, removing barriers to attendance. All RNLC programs and services are provided free of charge. 

Why Volunteer With Us

Beyond the impact, this role offers real professional value. You'll gain board-level governance experience and exposure to ACNC and not-for-profit financial reporting. You'll build connections with other board members and RNLC's funders, many from Melbourne's finance, community and philanthropic sectors. And for those considering a move toward non-executive or advisory roles, it's a strong addition to your track record.

Position Summary 

RNLC is seeking a dedicated Treasurer to join its Board of Directors and take a lead role in overseeing the organisation's financial management, governance and accountability. The Treasurer plays a critical role in ensuring RNLC's financial sustainability, giving the Board, funders and the community confidence in the organisation's stewardship of its resources, so it can continue empowering women from diverse backgrounds to thrive. The Treasurer works closely with the General Manager, bookkeeper and external accountant, and provides financial leadership to the Board. 

Key Responsibilities 

Financial Oversight & Reporting: 

• Present financial reports (balance sheet, profit & loss, cash flow) at board meetings, ensuring the Board understands RNLC's financial position.
• Oversee preparation of the annual budget in collaboration with the General Manager and bookkeeper, and present it to the Board for approval.
• Monitor actual performance against budget throughout the year and flag material variances to the Board.
• Liaise with RNLC's external accountant/auditor regarding annual financial statements and audit requirements. 

Governance & Compliance: 

• Ensure sound financial controls, policies and risk management practices are in place and followed. 
• Ensure RNLC meets its statutory financial obligations, including ACNC annual reporting, ATO obligations and other regulatory requirements. 
• Chair or participate in the Finance Subcommittee (where established), providing a link between the Subcommittee and the full Board. 
• Monitor RNLC's cash flow, reserves and overall financial sustainability, and advise the Board of risks or opportunities. 
• Oversee fraud control measures, including internal financial controls, segregation of duties and authorisation limits, and ensure any suspected fraud or financial irregularity is promptly investigated and reported to the Board. 
• Uphold RNLC's Conflict of Interest Policy, declaring any actual, perceived or potential conflicts of interest as they arise and abstaining from related decisions where required. 

Strategic Contribution: 

• Contribute financial expertise to strategic planning, major funding decisions and organisational sustainability discussions. 
• Support the General Manager and fundraising team by providing financial insight into grant applications and funding opportunities. 
• Represent RNLC's financial interests in discussions with funders, auditors and regulators as needed. 

Board Participation: 

• Participate actively in board meetings and board activities, working collaboratively with fellow directors and the RNLC team of staff and volunteers. 
• Support the induction of new board members on RNLC's financial position and reporting cycle. 

Selection Criteria 

• Demonstrated commitment to RNLC's mission, vision and values. 
• Relevant qualifications and experience in accounting, finance or financial management (CPA, CA or equivalent highly regarded). 
• Experience in financial oversight, budgeting and reporting, ideally within a not-for-profit or community organisation. 
• Understanding of ACNC governance and reporting obligations for not-for-profits, or a willingness to quickly develop this understanding. 
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information clearly to a non-financial Board. 
• A collaborative and team-oriented approach. 
• Commitment to ethical conduct, integrity and confidentiality. 

Desirable Attributes 

• Experience serving as Treasurer or on a Finance/Audit Committee for another not-for-profit organisation. 
• Understanding of grant and philanthropic funding models and their reporting requirements. 
• Connections within Melbourne's business, accounting or philanthropic community. 
• A strong interest in supporting women's empowerment. 

next steps

To submit your application, please click ‘Apply Now’ by the closing date.

For inquiries, please contact Ximena Avalos at ximena@rnlc.org.au using the subject line: Treasurer (Voluntary) - Board of Directors enquiry via EthicalJobs.

A position description is attached.