Program Lead Strategic Projects, Health Equity & System Enablers Branch

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.
Job Details
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Department: Department of Health
Work Type: Ongoing - full time or part time
Job Function: Other
Classification: VPSG6
Work Location: Melbourne - CBD
Reference: VG/HHS/00720688
Closing Date: 10-Dec-2025
Salary Range: $138,631 - $185,518
Job Duration: N/A
Attachments: Position Description - Program Lead Strategic Projects HESE 25 November 2025.docx (Word, 160KB)
Position Description

Position Description - Program Lead Strategic Projects HESE 25 November 2025.pdf (PDF, 218KB)
Position Description

Contact: Carrie Barnes
Carrie.Barnes@health.vic.gov.au

Position Details

About the role: 

This role is responsible for leading the implementation of reform programs. It requires expert policy development and project management skills and the ability to engage with senior staff across the health system. Complementary to this, the successful candidate will bring staff management and team leadership capabilities, an ability to think strategically, resolve complex problems through negotiation and develop creative solutions.  

The role would be suited to individuals who are comfortable working on complex issues and building positive relationships with senior stakeholders.

Please view position description for further information about the 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:

The Department of Health is seeking a skilled and motivated Program Lead to oversee strategic projects within the Health Equity & System Enablers Branch. This role is integral to supporting health equity initiatives and driving system improvements across the department.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong planning and organisational abilities, setting clear priorities, identifying required resources, and implementing systems to track progress. They will proactively address potential barriers, ensuring the smooth execution of projects. Additionally, they will be responsible for managing multiple projects simultaneously, working closely with key stakeholders to define project objectives, develop detailed plans, and monitor performance. Ensuring adherence to departmental policies and managing risks effectively are key aspects of the role.

A critical element of this role is communication. The Program Lead will be required to prepare complex briefs, reports, and correspondence with clarity and precision, ensuring that the content is tailored to the needs of various audiences. They will also be expected to edit communications to ensure they meet departmental standards and effectively convey key information.

Self-management is essential, as the Program Lead will need to plan and prioritise their workload to meet deadlines while maintaining a proactive approach to problem-solving. They will be expected to make informed decisions, leveraging strengths and managing weaknesses to contribute effectively to the team and department's goals.

If you are a strategic thinker with proven project management and communication skills, and a commitment to advancing health equity, we encourage you to apply for this impactful role.

Mandatory

  • A qualification in health, human services, business, project management and or public administration (or related fields) would be advantageous.
  • A high degree of understanding and knowledge of the Victorian health system, relevant departmental systems and environments would be an advantage,

On a personal level, the candidate will be proactive, self-starting, and responsible for their actions, consistently seeking new ideas and opportunities to improve practices. They will be enthusiastic, committed, and able to work tirelessly in a dynamic environment while building strong relationships and promoting harmony across teams and organisations.

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.

If you have any queries in relation to recruitment processes at Health, or experience any issues in applying, please feel free to email talentacquisition@health.vic.gov.au. 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.


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