Principal Policy Adviser, Health Workforce Regulation

About the role:

This position is a Fixed-Term, Full-time role for 18 months.

The Principal Policy Adviser leads and coordinates the provision of expert policy advice to the Department of Health executive, Secretary and Minister on Victoria's position regarding health workforce regulatory policy, reform, and the operation of the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (Victoria) Act 2009 and other regulatory instruments. This includes coordinating responses to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), National Boards, the National Health Practitioner Ombudsman and other relevant bodies on workforce regulation policy consultations.

This role undertakes complex regulatory policy analysis and develops recommendations contributing to the formulation of Victorian workforce regulation reform proposals, such as changes to practitioner scope of practice reform, and responding to parliamentary processes related to health workforce legislation and regulation. The role will provide advice internally across the branch and wider department, as well as contributing to sector engagement and collaboration, fostering effective relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders.

The role supports Victoria's representatives on intergovernmental committees, including the Victorian representative on the Legislation Committee and contributing to the development and implementation of regulatory reform. The Principal Policy Adviser also contributes to the development of Victoria's position on national reviews and programs of work that impact health workforce regulation, such as the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme Complexity Review.

The Principal Policy Adviser provides high-level advice on emerging issues, risks and opportunities in health workforce regulation, ensuring alignment with Victorian Government objectives and compliance with relevant legislation and policy frameworks.

Please review position description for further information about the role.

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:

The Department of Health is seeking an experienced and strategic Principal Policy Adviser to provide high-level policy leadership and advice on complex health and regulatory matters that impact the wellbeing of all Victorians.

In this pivotal role, you will lead the development and communication of public policy options, drawing on your deep understanding of regulatory systems and your ability to anticipate trends and opportunities within a complex operating environment. You will diagnose policy challenges, identify effective solutions, and translate strategic objectives into practical, evidence-based actions.

Success in this role requires strong analytical and conceptual skills, with the capacity to see the bigger picture and understand the interconnections between systems, stakeholders, and outcomes. You will prepare and refine complex briefs, reports, and correspondence to inform decision-making at senior levels, demonstrating exceptional written communication and an ability to tailor information to diverse audiences.

You will also engage confidently with internal and external stakeholders, fostering collaboration and navigating sensitive discussions with sound judgement and integrity. Your ability to integrate systems thinking with clear policy insight will ensure advice is forward-looking, coherent, and aligned with departmental and government priorities.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in regulatory policy, analysis, and the design and implementation of effective regulation, supported by a strong grasp of contemporary policy issues.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence the future direction of Victoria's health system and contribute to policies that deliver meaningful, long-term outcomes for communities across the state.

Mandatory

• A high-level knowledge of health workforce regulation, knowledge of and experience in regulation and legislation is an advantage
• A tertiary qualification in a relevant field would be advantageous.

On a personal level, the candidate will be a proactive and accountable professional who thinks conceptually and analytically, using creativity to solve complex problems and drive innovation. They will build strong, trusted relationships across all levels, handle challenges with diplomacy, and maintain a sharp focus on detail to ensure accuracy, coherence, and practical outcomes.

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 to view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date.

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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