Work Type: Fixed-term - Full-time
Salary: $138,631 - $185,518
Grade: VPS 6
Occupation: Policy
Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs
Reference: VG/HHS/721153
About the role:
This position is a Full-time, Fixed-Term role until 14 October 2026.
The Principal Policy Adviser leads the identification, development and implementation of priority hospital and health service policy, and related initiatives across the state, whilst building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders who represent a workforce, consumer and government lens.
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 a high performing team member comfortable working in complex policy spaces, with strong skills in policy development, written communication, problem-solving and product development. The role requires someone who is a proactive self-starter with a strong understanding of government processes and an ability to lead work in a complex, sensitive and fast-paced environment. You are diligent and have high levels of adaptability.
Please refer to position desciption for futher details on 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 seeks a dynamic Principal Policy Adviser to lead and support high-impact policy development. In this role, you will manage a cohesive team, ensuring clarity around goals, roles, and resources, while delegating tasks to achieve key objectives. You will contribute to formulating and communicating public policy recommendations, staying informed on contemporary issues, and liaising with a broad range of stakeholders.
A critical component of the role is understanding the legislative process and interpreting and applying relevant legislation. You will develop detailed project plans, clearly defini ng objectives, timelines, and action steps, while monitoring progress and managing risks to ensure outcomes are met.
The role requires strong communication and negotiation skills, enabling you to effectively advise, build relationships, and work collaboratively with both internal and external stakeholders. You will be tasked with identifying complex issues, proposing solutions, and ensuring those solutions are effectively implemented and evaluated for success.
Your ability to diagnose trends and opportunities, applying a systems-thinking approach, will be key in understanding the interconnectedness of internal and external factors to inform policy. If you have proven experience in policy analysis, leadership, stakeholder management, and problem-solving, we invite you to apply for this impactful role within a leading government department.
Desirable
On a personal level, the candidate will be decisive, able to make tough decisions with incomplete information, and take ownership of their actions. They will demonstrate integrity and a strong commitment to public service, while proactively developing others through coaching and empowerment. Adaptable and innovative, they will generate new ideas, work collaboratively with diverse teams, and manage competing priorities effectively under pressure.
What we offer:
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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected]. Please note that unsolicited applications will not be rep lied 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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