The Department of Health plays a critical role in the Victorian health system and is responsible for shaping it to meet the health needs of all Victorians. We’re focused on
supporting Victorians to be as healthy as they can; whether through alerting them to seasonal risks like thunderstorm asthma, notifying them of contact with
communicable diseases, safeguarding their drinking water, developing the best health, wellbeing and care facilities in the world, being at the forefront of mental health and
wellbeing treatment or accelerating medical research. It’s all part of the way we partner with the community to help every individual lead a healthy life.
About the role:
The Principal Policy Adviser is a senior policy and project leader responsible for shaping and delivering strategic reform initiatives across the AOD portfolio, with a particular focus on service reform design and implementation. The role provides authoritative advice, leads complex project and policy development, and drives delivery through effective governance, stakeholder engagement and change management.
Working in a fast-paced environment, the Principal Policy Adviser leads end-to-end delivery of priority AOD service reform projects—developing strategic options, supporting decision-making, coordinating cross-government and sector implementation, managing risks and dependencies, and tracking benefits to ensure reforms translate into practical, measurable improvements.
About us:
At the Victorian Department of Health we want a future where Victorians are the healthiest people in the world. A Victoria where our children and people thrive, our workplaces are productive and safe, and our communities are more connected.
We see it as our job to support Victorians to stay healthy and safe. And to deliver a world-class healthcare system that ensures every single Victorian can access safe, quality care that leads to better health outcomes for all.
About you:
Can you demonstrate the following?
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Develops policy frameworks within area of expertise or responsibility based on defined organisational priorities
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Participates in strategic planning and contributes to strategic decision making process
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Initiates and manages negotiations with peers (internal and external to work unit) to gain commitment to projects, and delivery of activities to meet timelines
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Provides and receives highly complex, contentious or sensitive information where high levels of negotiation, communication and interpersonal skills are required
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Subject matter expert that conceptualises, initiates, implements, promotes and evaluates complex and innovative technical programs
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Draft and develop material including the preparation of Cabinet and Cabinet related material, Ministerial and Secretary briefings and meeting papers, agendas, minutes and reports.
Qualifications / Specialist Expertise
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A tertiary qualification in fields related to public health, public policy or health administration would be desirable.
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Significant knowledge and experience in government, health systems and/or health service delivery would be desirable, with skills and experience in policy development and implementation.
What we offer:
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The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
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A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service.
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A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements.
How to apply:
Applications should include a resume and a cover letter. Click the ‘Apply' button to view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date.
We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated to provide responsive and quality services to all Victorians. We continue to build an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity of backgrounds and differences to realise the potential of our employees for innovation and delivering services aimed at enhancing the lives of all Victorians. All roles can be worked flexibly and we encourage applications from Aboriginal people, people with disability, LGBTIQ+ and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Please contact us if you require any adjustments to participate in the recruitment process at
[email protected]. For more information on our commitment to inclusion and diversity see inclusion and diversity at the Department of Health.
If you have any queries in relation to participation in recruitment processes at Health, or experience any issues in applying, please feel free to email
[email protected]. Please note that unsolicited applications from third parties cannot be accepted. If you have questions regarding the role, please message the contact person listed on the advertisement directly.
Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. Information provided will be treated in line with our Privacy Policy.
