Senior Policy Adviser

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: Fixed term - full time
Job Function: Policy
Classification: VPSG5
Work Location: Melbourne - CBD
Reference: VG/HHS/720742
Closing Date: 10-Nov-2025
Salary Range: $113,022 - $136,747
Job Duration: Fixed Term to 3 January 2027
Attachments: 720742 VPS-5 - Senior Policy Adviser October 2025.pdf (PDF, 224KB)
Position Description

720742 VPS-5 - Senior Policy Adviser October 2025.docx (Word, 147KB)
Position Description

Contact: Michelle Bunte
michelle.l.bunte@health.vic.gov.au

Position Details

About the role: 

This position is a Fixed Term role until 3 January 2027.

Working within a team supporting the Manager, Disability Interface, the role will contribute to a range of complex priority projects related to disability-health and aging interfaces, disability reform and statewide programs such as Personal Alert Victoria and Victorian Aids and Equipment Program.

To be successful in this role, you will be a high performing team member with strong policy development and systems thinking skills; complemented by superior communication, problem solving, and project management capabilities. You will also have the ability to work flexibly to respond to a range of emerging issues and evolving priorities.

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 an experienced Senior Policy Adviser to join our team. This role requires a dynamic professional with expertise in policy development, project management, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement.

The successful candidate will be responsible for formulating and communicating public policy options, keeping up to date with current trends, and analyzing the implications of proposed policies. They will use their strong project management skills to consult with stakeholders, create detailed plans with clear objectives, and monitor project progress to ensure goals are met while managing risks effectively.

In addition to problem-solving, the Senior Policy Adviser will work closely with stakeholders, leveraging their understanding of diverse perspectives to find innovative solutions. The role involves diagnosing trends, identifying opportunities and obstacles, and understanding the relationship between systems and communities to inform policy.

Candidates should have excellent written communication skills, preparing clear and concise reports, briefs, and presentations. They will also be expected to demonstrate strong planning and organizational skills, setting priorities and establishing systems to ensure goals are achieved, while anticipating potential barriers and adjusting as necessary.

This role offers the opportunity to work on high-impact policy initiatives, contribute to the development of public health strategies, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to drive meaningful change. If you have a passion for policy, project management, and improving public health outcomes, we encourage you to apply.

Desirable 

  • Demonstrated knowledge or and experience in the aged care and/or disability sectors in Victoria and/or the Commonwealth would be advantageous.
  • A tertiary qualification in a field related to health, health administration, public policy or related fields would be desirable.

On a personal level, the candidate will be creative, innovative, and open to new ideas, actively seeking ways to improve practices and translate them into workplace improvements. They will demonstrate integrity, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence, while maintaining flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic environment.

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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