Please note: only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are eligible to apply as this position is exempt under the SPECIAL MEASURES PROVISION of S12(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act (VIC). 

About the role:  

The Senior Policy Adviser has responsibility for actively contributing to policy development to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people and their families living in Victoria. 

The Senior Policy Adviser will work collaboratively with key Aboriginal health organisations, department divisions and health services to ensure that health care delivery is culturally safe and accessible for Aboriginal people, and that service design and development is driven by Aboriginal led-decision making and in line with commitment to self-determination and Aboriginal ways of being, knowing and doing. This includes contributing to the identification of improvement priorities and opportunities, driving the implementation of key initiatives and providing expert advice.

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:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in a health discipline or relevant public policy area and / or a relevant post-graduate qualification in a relevant health or public policy area is desirable.
• Cultural Knowledge and expertise including the ability to identify emerging issues, trends and potential risks that impact upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• Demonstrated experience and understanding of working with Aboriginal organisations and Aboriginal community.
• Strong collaboration skills and an ability to work flexibly and creatively to respond to emerging issues, system barriers and reform agendas.

Accountabilities: 

• Enable and support self-determination of Aboriginal communities and Aboriginal health organisations in relation to the design, implementation and review of health services, programs and policies
• Provide authoritative advice, reasoned recommendations and innovative solutions to complex and sensitive issues based on comprehensive research.
• Monitor and report on high priority issues, risks and trends and prepare and present reports, ministerial briefs, Cabinet and agency submissions.
• Develop policy initiatives that meet government and departmental objectives within resourcing, timeline and budget parameters.

What we offer: 

• The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
• A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service & Sector.
• 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 inclusion@health.vic.gov.au. For more information on our commitment to inclusion and diversity see inclusion and diversity at the Department of Health.

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. 

The Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) Recruitment Policy allows for priority consideration for employees who apply through the Jobs Skills Exchange (JSE) jobs board platform. As such, these employees are strongly encouraged to submit their application through the JSE.