Work Type: Fixed-term - Full-time
Salary: $113,022 - $136,747
Grade: VPS 5
Occupation: Policy
Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs
Reference: VG/DE/SRS/1902736
About the Role
This is a fixed term position until 23 December 2027
Reporting to the Manager, Digital Learning Systems and Software, the Senior Policy Advisor will lead the development of:
Policy options and advice regarding the future state of the Software for Connected Learners program, including how the program may be reformed to deliver further benefits within budget and in alignment with the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0.
Policy options and advice for enhancing the operations of Arc and realisation of intended benefits, including strengthening content governance, in alignment with WOVG and department policies and the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead current state analysis of SfCL and Arc – strengths, areas for strengthening, risks and opportunities.
Undertake stakeholder consultations, including with schools, peak bodies, internal stakeholders, sectors and jurisdictions, suppliers and researchers.
Undertake modelling (e.g., financial, benefits, learning and wellbeing) if changes to SfCL and/or Arc are made.
Develop and communicate high quality and easy-to-digest policy options and advice, including through briefings and presentations.
Develop and enact approved change plans.
Attributes
Strong self-management and critical thinking skills with the ability to work proactively and independently.
Experience in policy development, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning.
Exceptional organisational skills to plan, coordinate, and deliver complex strategic analysis within tight deadlines.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with stakeholders and senior executives.
Advanced analytical capability and ability to present complex information clearly and accurately.
Ability to deliver timely insights that support informed decision-making.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience
Relevant qualifications and/or experience in on or more of the following:
education policy
digital learning policy
teaching practice
program design or redesign
program governance
change management.
Please note that a technical background (IT/technologist) is not required for this role.
How to Apply
Applicants are required to submit a CV and cover letter (max. 2 pages for cover letter) that responds clearly but succinctly to the key selection criteria outlined in the position description.
About the Division
The Curriculum and Teaching Practice Division (CTPD) is responsible for developing and supporting schools to implement the department's teaching and learning policies and providing curriculum implementation guidance to Victorian government schools.
CTPD draws on contemporary research and practice evidence to develop evidence-based teaching and learning policy reforms, co-design and implement initiatives to support schools to deliver high-quality teaching programs. CTPD has primary responsibility for providing advice and implementation support to government schools to deliver the Victorian Curriculum.
CTPD has 2 branches:
Literacy, Languages, the Arts and Humanities
Numeracy, STEM and Digital Learning.
About the Digital Learning Systems and Software Unit
The Digital Learning Systems and Software (DLSS) Unit is responsible for two key digital services to Victorian schools; the Software for Connected Lea rners (SfCL) Program and the Arc platform.
The Software for Connected Learners Program:
The SfCL program is provides select teaching and learning software for Victorian government schools.
The team is responsible for the end-to-end procurement processes and contract management activities to ensure that Victorians receive the best value from the program.
The Arc platform:
Arc is a digital platform that provides Victorian teachers with access to curriculum-aligned resources, professional learning opportunities, and safe and reliable software and technologies.
The team is responsible for the operations of the platform, including supporting providers to host professional learning events, supporting users and responding to and managing user feedback, and developing learning content in partnership with program areas across the department.
About the Department
The department provides a wide range of learning and development support and services. The department provides policy leadership, plans for the future of education in Victoria and leads key cross-sector collaboration. The department plays an important system steward role by providing support, guidance, oversight and assurance across early childhood and school education systems, as well as directly providing school education and 50 new early learning centres.
Further Information
For more details regarding this position please see attached position description for the capabilities to address in application.
The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms – gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page
Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.
Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at www.education.vic.gov.au.
For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Craig Snelling, Manager Digital Learning Systems and Software via [email protected].
Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements.
Applications close 11:59pm on Tuesday 20th January 2026.