Chef

MDAS’ reason for being is described by our Elders as:

• Employed by our Community, to work for our Community… engaging, educating, and empowering individuals, families, and our Community in their journey to self-determination.
• MDAS is committed to becoming a leading Aboriginal organisation known for making a practical difference to the lives of clients, families, and our Community.
• This is underpinned by our LORE, the foundation of who we are, what we do, and why we do it.
• Our organisation’s services, people and culture are strengthened through strong leadership and meaningful engagement with Community and MDAS teams.

MDAS’ purpose is to:

• Heal, support, serve, and protect our communities throughout the Mallee Region.
• Promote healthy, resilient, and capable Aboriginal people and families who can be their very best selves and exercise true self‑determination.
• Care for, strengthen, empower, motivate, and guide our Mob

The Chef plays an essential role within MDAS by supporting the in‑house catering programs, external catering requests, and the Community Café. The role services all MDAS Mildura sites and ensures high‑quality catering for meetings, training sessions, programs, and events across the organisation.

This position is responsible for maintaining smooth operations within the kitchen, delivering culturally respectful service, and ensuring food safety and quality standards are consistently met.

• Prepare food in line with organisational catering requirements.
• Comply with dietary restrictions and modified diets for staff and Community members.
• Prepare and present food for catering in accordance with the MDAS Food Safety Plan and Victorian standards.
• Assist in preparing food for Community events and functions.
• Provide customer service and operate point‑of‑sale systems as required.
• Assist with menu planning and ordering.
• Undertake other kitchen and service duties within capability.

• Maintain clean and tidy kitchen and dining areas, including sweeping, mopping, and sanitising equipment.
• Wash dishes and equipment; maintain clean work benches and ensure equipment is stored correctly.
• Adhere to all requirements of the Food Safety Program.

• Foster and maintain relationships with external organisations to support clients and benefit MDAS programs.
• Attend relevant meetings, forums, and education sessions to stay informed about developments in the hospitality industry.

• Support values that respect historical and contemporary Aboriginal cultures, acknowledging Aboriginal people’s special connection to the State.
• Comply with Quality, Risk, and Occupational Health and Safety laws, standards, policies, procedures, and safe work practices.
• Assist with and support internal and external audit processes.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in food preparation.

• Experience working in a dynamic and diverse workplace.

• Demonstrates commitment to inclusive practice for Aboriginal people and willingness to learn about other cultures to improve service delivery.

• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or higher.
• Food Handler’s Certificate.

• A current driver’s licence valid in Australia.
• A current Employee Working with Children Check (Victoria).
• A current National Police Check.

MDAS is a child‑safe organisation and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children. Employment is subject to a satisfactory National Police Check and Working with Children Check prior to commencement.