Principal Policy Advisor

Description:

About the Department
The role of the Department of Education is to support Victorians to build prosperous, socially engaged, happy and healthy lives. It does this by supporting lifelong learning and healthy development, strengthening families and helping to equip people with the skills and knowledge for a 21st century economy and society.
About the Division
The Wellbeing, Health and Engagement Division (WHED) leads policy and programs to improve student wellbeing, safety, health, engagement, and inclusion. The division has a particular focus on improving outcomes for cohorts that may be disadvantaged or at risk when it comes to their education. Specifically, the purpose of the division is to:
* build safe and respectful school environments
* strengthen the response to family violence
* support student mental health and wellbeing, including positive mental health promotion, and build mental health capability
* increase support for vulnerable students at risk of disengaging from education
* expand student health support in schools.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced VPS6 Principal Policy Officer to develop options and recommendations for the department on health and wellbeing focused initatives and services that contribute to improved healdh and wellbeing of children and young people.
The incumbent will utilise their strong analytical and conceptual skills to lead and manage multifaceted health and wellbeing focused policy projects and conduct complex policy analysis.
You will provide expert policy advice on child and youth health to program and policy areas across the department working with key health stakeholders across government and the health sector to develop and provide health policy advice, including advising on emergency management responses as required.
This role is fixed term- full time for 2 years.
Qualifications and Experience
* A comprehensive knowledge about Victorian health, human service and education systems
* A strong record of policy development and a demonstrated understanding of the working of government at a VPS6 level.
* An understanding about health issues facing children and young people
* Proven ability to effectively engage and build positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all levels through effective communication.
* A tertiary qualification in public health or related clinical field.
For more details regarding this position please see attached position descriptions.
For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Karen Gary on +61 3 7022 0631 or email Karen.Gray@education.vic.gov.au
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.
Applications close 11:59pm on 30/04/2025