Senior Policy Officer, Priority Programs

Senior Policy Officer, Priority Programs

Join our Priority Programs team in the Mental Health Branch at the Ministry of Health for an exciting temporary 15-month employment opportunity to 29 January 2027 and be part of the team enriching health in millions of ways every day.

About us

• Our core values of collaboration, openness, respect, and empowerment are more than just words – they're the guiding principles that shape every aspect of our work.
• We are committed to your growth and development, providing the resources and opportunities you need to excel in your career.
• Join a passionate team dedicated to innovation and creativity.
• While regular office presence is essential, we offer flexible work arrangements to support your needs.
• Build your career in strategic mental health policy and program management and delivery.

To learn more about the Ministry and what benefits we offer, access our Employee Benefits Handbook.

About this role

With your skills and experience, you can contribute to the millions of ways we're enhancing health and wellness while developing your career as part of the largest health organisation in Australia.

This role is vital in developing and promoting best practice policies and programs that make a real difference. In this role, you will collaborate with key stakeholders across NSW Health, government agencies, community managed organisations, the mental health sector and people with a lived and living experience, providing expert guidance to achieve impactful suicide prevention and mental health policy objectives. You will contribute to significant intergovernmental and cross-sector policy initiatives, ensuring a coordinated and effective approach. If you are ready to leverage your expertise to influence positive change, we encourage you to apply.

Crown Clerk 9/10, starting salary from $129,464 - $142,665 plus Super and annual leave loading, with a 35-hour work week, work location 1 Reserve Road, St Leonards.

For more information, please read the full Role Description.

What you'll be doing

As a Senior Policy Officer in the Priority Programs team, you will lead and monitor the delivery of statewide suicide prevention policy, programs and evaluations for suicide prevention and response initiatives and intergovernmental mental health activities. You will work closely with the Principal Policy Officer, Director and other Priority Programs team members.

About you

We are seeking motivated and committed individuals with:

• The ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A growth mindset, and commitment to continuous learning and personal development
• The ability to work in a small dynamic team environment

How to apply

At The Ministry of Health, we want you to make the most of the opportunities you'll get to grow your skills and your career, surrounded by authentic, smart people and leaders.

Please review the role description and submit:

• Your up-to-date resume (up to 5 pages) AND
• A cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining your interest and motivation in applying for this role AND
• A response to the target question below.

Use the link below to access our Capability Application tool, designed to help you excel in the recruitment process. Practice your responses with the example questions provided to effectively highlight your achievements and the strategies you used to accomplish them.

Capability application tool | NSW Public Service Commission

Target Question (1-2 pages)

Describe a complex project you have managed from start to finish. Why was it complex? Who were the key stakeholders involved? How did you manage communication with these stakeholders? What were the major risks and challenges you encountered? What specific strategies or actions did you take to ensure successful delivery and achievement of project goals?

For role related queries or questions contact Hannah Simpson, Principal Policy Officer, Priority Programs at and quote REQ

If you do require any adjustments to the recruitment process during the recruitment process, please contact Khloe Yang at

Closing Date: 11:59pm Sunday 28 September 2025

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

At the Ministry of Health, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and flexible environment which reflects the community and customers we serve. We actively promote the employment of women, people with a disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQ+ community and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

If you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and would like assistance with your application or to obtain more information on how to apply, please visit The Stepping Up Initiative.

To be eligible for employment in these roles you must be an Australian citizen, or a permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen, or hold a valid visa with permission to work in Australia.

Additional information

• This recruitment may be used to create a Talent Pool for similar future roles (ongoing or temporary) that may arise over the next 18 months.
• This is a temporary role and there may be opportunities for ongoing employment at grade.
• For more information on applying visit the Ministry of Health Career portal
• Please note the selection process will include a range of comparative assessment techniques to assist in determining your suitability for the role.

Don't miss your chance to embark on this fulfilling journey Apply now

Applications Close: 11:59pm Sunday 28 September 2025