Job description An exciting opportunity exists within the Education Policy and Reform Division for a Senior Policy Advisor.
The role would suit a candidate with excellent policy, project management, analytical, and writing skills who wants to make a difference to Victoria's education system, so that every child and young person receives a great education.
The Senior Policy Advisor will lead and contribute to strategic projects at every stage of the policy cycle, including research, analysis, development of options, preparation of reports and advice, and support for implementation.
The Senior Policy Advisor will produce written materials such as briefings, PowerPoint slides, submissions, reports, options papers and proposals for key stakeholders and decision makers; revise policy in response to feedback; progress development ready for approval; and consult respectfully with and influence stakeholders.
The Senior Policy Advisor will also contribute to system-level schools strategy through coordination, communication and achievement of strategic direction.
The role requires: * the ability to deal with complex concepts and analytical challenges (potentially including quantitative analysis) comfortably and express these concepts through well-developed written communication * policy skills to undertake policy analysis focused on the system levers that drive quality school-based education * effective relationship building, influencing and collaboration skills to ensure policy recommendations are informed by diverse perspectives and are supported by our key partners * the ability to use project management concepts to manage deliverables and risks, and adjust to shifting priorities while taking initiative and accountability for one's own work * use of written, verbal and visual language to convey and obtain information, insights and ideas that is compelling, persuasive and appropriate to the audience.
Attributes We're seeking a dynamic and experienced staff member with the ability to produce effective written communication, build strong stakeholder relationships and identify innovative solutions to complex problems.
This role would suit an experienced Senior Policy Advisor who enjoys working in a dynamic and high-profile environment and is prepared to take initiative, lead fast-moving projects and adapt to changing work priorities.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience While the position does not require detailed knowledge of the school system, this would be advantageous, as would prior experience in strategic policy development.
Demonstrated skills in quantitative analysis to inform policy will be particularly favourably regarded.
A bachelor's degree in education, public policy or a relevant discipline is desirable.
About the Group and Team The Senior Policy Advisor role is based in a high-performing team that is supportive, friendly and passionate about driving policy reform that improves outcomes for young people, and within a Division that supports opportunities for people to build their management and leadership skills.
The Education and Policy Reform Division sits within the Strategy and Secondary School Reform Group.
EPRD is the driving force behind the strategic policy direction of the Department of Education, focusing on enhancing the learning, wellbeing, and development of school-aged children and young people.
Our teams support high-level decision-making processes, aiding senior executives, ministers, and various governance bodies with expert policy advice and strategic insights.
We lead the way in setting the direction for Victorian education reform.
Leveraging research and evidence, we tackle complex policy issues to secure the best outcomes for students.
Our work involves crafting strategic policies, reform directions and initiatives thorough research, consultation, collaboration, planning and high-quality briefing to decision-makers ensuring everything we do supports departmental and government-wide goals.
The Strategy and Secondary School Reform Group will strengthen and expand existing senior secondary reforms to include the early years of secondary school while continuing a clear focus on intergovernmental relations, performance and evidence, and Education State strategy.
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.
How to apply So, what now?
If this sounds like you, and a team that you would like to join, please apply.
Your application needs to include a resume and a cover letter (max 2 pages) that responds clearly but succinctly to the key selection criteria outlined in the position description.
Full, part-time and job-share arrangements will be considered.
For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Bryn Davies, Director, on 03 7022 1746.
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.
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 Sunday 13 April 2025