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 Freedom of Information Adviser supports the delivery of timely and high‑quality FOI services across the Department. The role assists with the day‑to‑day management of FOI requests under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic), including requests involving personal and non‑personal information, ensuring statutory obligations and departmental standards are met.
Working as part of a specialist FOI team, the role contributes to the assessment, processing and review of FOI requests, and supports the coordination of FOI matters that progress to the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) and, where required, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). The position also assists in the preparation of briefs, reports and advice to senior officers and executives, contributing to transparency, accountability and sound decision‑making across the Department.
Please refer to position description for further information in relation to role.
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:
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Support the delivery of the Department's Freedom of Information function by assisting with the processing of FOI requests in accordance with legislative requirements, professional standards and departmental procedures.
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Prepare detailed emails, departmental briefs and other correspondence, including freedom of information decision letters and letters to courts.
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Liaise with business areas to support document searches, clarify operational context and facilitate timely and accurate FOI responses.
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Assist with the coordination of FOI matters that progress to the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) and, where required, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT)
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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:
Relevant tertiary qualification in law, public administration, information management, or a related discipline is desirable.
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Demonstrated knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic), Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 and Health Records Act 2001; as well as demonstrated experience in stakeholder consultation and managing information under strict confidentiality rules would be desirable.
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 & Sector.
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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 c ontinue 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 recruitment processes at Health, or experience any issues in applying, please feel free to email
[email protected]. Please note that unsolicited applications will not be replied to. If you have questions regarding the role specifically, we would advise you to reach out to the contact 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 the strictest confidence in line with our Privacy Policy.
