Job type: Full time / until 30 June 2026Organisation: Department of HealthOccupation: PolicyReference: VG/1801551The 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 supportingVictorians to be as healthy as they can; whether through alerting them to seasonal risks like thunderstorm asthma, notifying them of contact with communicable diseases, safeguardingtheir 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'sall part of the way we partner with the community to help every individual lead a healthy life.About the role:The Senior Policy Officer works within a team supporting the Manager, Planning and Commissioning, to support work related to the harm reduction portfolio.Day to day tasks include coordinating projects, providing advice, maintaining stakeholder relationships, and supporting planning and commissioning activities. The role involves developing effective relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders as well as with program and policy areas within the department.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.How you'll make a difference:To be successful in this role, you will be a high performing individual with strong analytical, problem solving, policy development and communication skills. The role would be suited to individuals who are comfortable working with complex issues, in multidisciplinary teams and with a range of internal and external stakeholders to deliver complex projects.A strong understanding of the Victorian mental health system, alcohol and other drugs sector, and knowledge of the department and its operating processes and information systems is desirable.Suitable applicants will be able to demonstrate:Support work to implement policy and realise the government's commitment to harm reduction, including:- Preparing submissions to Cabinet and Committees of Cabinet.- Supporting the successful delivery and completion of the projects/sub-projects within resourcing, timeline and budget parameters.- Evaluating tender bids and participating in liaison and negotiation associated with tender processes.Provide authoritative advice and sound policy recommendations to senior management and government based on comprehensive researchDevelop policy initiatives that meet government and departmental objectives within resourcing, timeline and budget parameters.Monitor and report on high priority issues, risks and trends and prepare and present reports, ministerial briefs, Cabinet and agency submissions.Establish and maintain effective working relationships and facilitate the flow of information across the department and with key external stakeholders.Maintain an understanding of Commonwealth and State legislative and policy reform directions to influence policy development.Where responsible for supporting projects, ensure they are delivered in accordance with relevant legislation and government regulations and guidelines.The Mental Health and Wellbeing Division encourages applications from people with a past or current lived experience of mental illness, substance use or addiction, as either a consumer or careric website.To learn more please click 'Apply' to view the Position Description on the Careers.vWhat 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 ****** . Please view our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion here .Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks including proof of 3 vaccinations (including booster) against COVID-19. Information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence, in line with our Privacy Policy .The Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) Recruitment Policy allows for priority consideration for Victorian Public Service (VPS) and select employees of the Victorian Public Sector who apply through the Jobs Skills Exchange (JSE) jobs board platform. As such, these employees are strongly encouraged to submit their application through JSE rather than via external advertisement.#J-18808-Ljbffr
