Principal Adviser, Safety Branch

About the role:

The Principal Adviser works in close partnership with the Executive Director, Safety and the Safety Directorate leadership team to shape and implement strategic priorities that improve patient safety and system performance across Victoria.

This role provides high-level advice and coordination to ensure the Directorate's work is aligned with SCV's statewide goals, grounded in safety intelligence and systems thinking, and responsive to emerging safety risks and opportunities. The Principal Adviser plays a pivotal role in driving cross-branch performance monitoring and continuous improvement, integrating evidence and insights into decision-making.

A key accountability of the role is overseeing the operational aspects of SCV's Academy, including workforce planning, capability development, recruitment, and deployment, in line with strategic workforce priorities and branch needs. While the Executive Director leads strategic engagement, the Principal Adviser ensures the effective management and enablement of the Academy's function.

The role collaborates across SCV and with external stakeholders such as health services, regulators, and partners to embed system learning, strengthen clinical governance, and shape policy and improvement initiatives that prevent harm and support high-quality care.

Success in this role requires strong systems insight, an aptitude for strategic policy and performance, and the ability to lead complex initiatives involving diverse stakeholders. It is ideally suited to individuals with knowledge of healthcare delivery and safety, and who thrive in dynamic, ambiguous environments where collaboration and innovation are essential.

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:

• Tertiary qualification in a relevant field such as health, public policy, business, health services management, or a related field.
• Clinical qualifications or relevant experience in patient safety, clinical governance, or health service delivery.
• Knowledge of system-level healthcare improvement, change management, or implementation science.
• Experience in the operational delivery of programs involving workforce capability, continuous improvement, or leadership development.
• Exposure to or experience working with government agencies, regulators, or interjurisdictional healthcare partnerships.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, performance monitoring and reporting, or policy development within a healthcare, public sector, or regulatory environment.
• Strong understanding of clinical governance, system safety, or quality improvement, with the ability to support complex programs and initiatives.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders and contribute to cross-organisational priorities.

To view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date please click on the PD attached.

What we offer:

• The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
• A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service & Sector.
• A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements.

How to apply:

Applications should include a resume and a cover letter. Click the `Apply' button

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 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 Please note that unsolicited applications will not be replied 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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