Senior Policy Advisor

The Senior Secondary Pathways Reform Division in the Department of Education is looking for a Senior Policy Advisor to develop, implement and monitor strategic plans and policies to support reforms in the secondary and senior secondary schooling sector.

The role is fixed term until 30 June 2027.

About the Department  

The Department of Education 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. 

About the Division  

Senior Secondary Pathways Reform Division (SSPRD).  

The SSPRD was established to lead a generational reform agenda in response to the 2020 Review into Vocational and Applied Learning Pathways in Senior Secondary Schooling. These reforms will collectively support all Victorian secondary students to pursue high-quality and valued vocational pathways aligned to their strengths and interests and to finish schooling with the skills and capabilities they need for success in further education, training, work, and life.  

The Senior Secondary Pathways Reform agenda is a high priority for the government. The SSPRD engages regularly with the Minister for Education and critical education, training, industry and community stakeholders.  

About the Role 

The Senior Policy Advisor develops, implements and monitors strategic plans and policies to support reforms in the senior secondary schooling sector.  The incumbent will lead and manage projects and programs as well as undertake policy analysis.

The Strategy and Coordination team in the Division plays a leadership role in setting the strategy for the Division, understanding the impact of initiatives on key beneficiaries, providing strong governance, project management and reporting on key reform initiatives, and delivering strategic communications and change activities to support whole of reform implementation. The Senior Policy Advisor will play a key role in the strategy and coordination work of the team.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience  

A tertiary degree in a related field is desirable. 

Applying for the role

Please submit a CV and cover letter (up to 2 pages) responding to the key selection criteria listed in the position description.

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.

For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Ash Field - Senior Commications Officer via *********@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 i n 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 on Friday 21 August 2026