About the role: 

This position is a Fixed-Term, Full-time role to 15 February 2027.

The Policy Officer, Reform Design and Delivery, will contribute to the identification, development and implementation of initiatives to reform the planned care systems (planned surgery and specialist/outpatient care), whilst building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders who represent a workforce, consumer and government lens. Front and centre of this is the design and implementation of the Specialist Care Reform Blueprint, which will outline the reform agenda to improve timely and equitable access to specialist care in Victorian Health Services, as well as supporting the program management of the Patient Support Units across 28 health services, which focus on auditing the planned surgery and specialist care waitlists, pathway redesign to enable planned surgery reforms and improving access to timely care.

Demonstrating relevant experience and expertise in health systems, government processes, stakeholder consultation, policy design, and program implementation, this role will provide the opportunity to engage with a wide range of stakeholders and impart enduring reform in the healthcare sector. You will work closely with team members and other partners to coordinate advice on cross-portfolio strategic policy issues, corporate, budget, staffing, governance and financial matters. You will contribute to a positive team culture to build and sustain positive stakeholder relationships.

To be successful in this role you will be comfortable working in complex policy spaces, with skills in policy development, written communication, analytical thinking and problem-solving with high quality product development. The role requires someone who is a proactive self-starter with an understanding of government processes and an ability to work in a complex, sensitive and fast-paced environment with minimal direction. You are diligent, have high levels of adaptability, and are able to build positive relationships with stakeholders.

Please review 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 capable and driven Policy Officer, Reform Design and Delivery to support the development and implementation of key reform initiatives. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to meaningful policy outcomes within a dynamic and complex environment, working across teams and with a wide range of stakeholders.

You will play a central role in developing and communicating policy options and recommendations, ensuring advice is informed by current and emerging issues and considers broader system impacts. This includes analysing policy implications, identifying linkages, and contributing to evidence-based decision-making.

The position involves supporting the delivery of projects from planning through to implementation. You will work closely with stakeholders to develop clear project plans, define objectives, and ensure actions are effectively executed. Monitoring progress, managing risks, and ensuring projects meet agreed outcomes will be key aspects of the role.

Strong problem-solving skills are essential, with the ability to gather and assess information from multiple sources, analyse issues from different perspectives, and develop practical, effective solutions. You will also be responsible for preparing high-quality written materials, including briefs, reports, and correspondence, ensuring information is presented clearly, concisely, and appropriately for the audience.

The role requires the ability to build and maintain effective stakeholder relationships, identify shared priorities, and deliver outcomes that meet diverse needs. A systems-thinking approach is important, enabling you to understand broader trends, challenges, and interdependencies to inform reform design and delivery.

This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional to contribute to impactful health reform while developing their policy and project management expertise.

Mandatory

• A tertiary qualification in fields related to health, public policy, business and/or management, or health administration would be desirable.
• Knowledge and experience in government, health sector and/or health service delivery would be desirable, with skills and experience in policy development and implementation.

On a personal level, the candidate will be an analytical and innovative thinker who is comfortable working with complexity, applies strong attention to detail, and translates ideas into practical improvements. They will work collaboratively, plan and organise effectively, and demonstrate self-awareness by seeking feedback and continuously refining their approach to achieve team and organisational goals.

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.  

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