Senior Project and Policy Officer, Mental Health & Wellbeing

About this role

About the role: 

The Senior Project and Policy Officer, Lived Experience will work in close partnership and collaboration with external funded project teams, lived and living experience experts and leaders, and representative bodies consistent with the principles of coproduction to implement and monitor key service delivery priorities. The position will ensure this is done with clear coordination and integration with broader department policies, procedures and related reform activities in the Mental Health and Wellbeing division.

As a Lived Experience position, this includes:

• Speaking and working from a consumer perspective to ensure lived experience views and perspectives inform the work of the team
• Supporting and facilitating the inclusion of broader lived experience perspectives, including people who have a lived experience of alcohol and other drugs and those from diverse communities, to inform the work of the team
• Enabling strong relationships between the Division, lived experience peak bodies, and the lived experience sector to support the team's work program

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:

Can you demonstrate the following?

• Provide authoritative advice, reasoned recommendations and innovative solutions to complex and sensitive issues based on comprehensive research.

• Develop policy initiatives that meet government and departmental objectives within resourcing, timeline and budget parameters.

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships and facilitate the flow of information across the department and with key external stakeholders - Manage stakeholders through effective negotiation and influence.

• Represent the department on key stakeholder committees and groups concerned with achieving government and departmental objectives and contribute to relevant committee and governance processes

• Provide expert advice to the Lived Experience Branch on lived experience perspectives in the mental health system.  

Qualifcations / Specialist Expertise

• A tertiary qualification in fields related to public health or public policy and a sound understanding of the Victorian mental health system would be desirable
• A demonstrated professional work history that intentionally draws on lived experience as a consumer is highly valued for this role

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.