Policy & Program Officer, Policy, Prevention & Wellbeing Promotion

About this role

About the role: 

The Policy & Program Officer, Policy, Prevention & Wellbeing Promotion works as part of the team implementing key reforms that aim to building a safe and inclusive mental health and wellbeing system that reflects, embraces and responds to diversity.
The role supports delivery of the Diverse Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Framework and Blueprint and the design, implementation and oversight of programs and initiatives that deliver equity and inclusion for multicultural and multifaith communities; disability communities and LGBTIQA+ communities in the mental health and wellbeing system.

The Policy & Program Officer will operate in a complex environment, requiring capacity to exercise sound judgement, liaise effectively and build relationships with key people, and particularly working in partnership with the diverse communities' sector and community members to support their engagement with mental health reforms.

The Policy & Program Officer is part of the Wellbeing Promotion, Equity and Inclusion team who work to promote good mental health and wellbeing within the Victorian community and to ensure the mental health and wellbeing system is responsive to the needs of diverse communities.

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:

• Contributes to the development of action plans related to relevant strategies and/policy frameworks within area of expertise or responsibility based on defined organisational priorities.
• Contribute to the development and provision of advice and sound policy recommendations to senior management and government.
• Contributes to strategic policy development within a specific field of expertise.
• Prepares reports, briefs and correspondence on complex issues that impact at program or organisational level
• Draft and develop material including the preparation of Cabinet and Cabinet related material, Ministerial and Secretary briefings and meeting papers, agendas, minutes and reports.

Qualifications/Specialist Expertise:

• A tertiary qualification in fields related to public health would be desirable.
• Experience in equity‑focused policy and program development and understanding of how mental health and wellbeing systems operate in Victoria will be beneficial.
  

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.