Policy Officer

About this role

The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) works hard to create equal opportunities for all Victorians to live a safe, respected and valued life. Our areas of focus are child protection, housing, disability, the prevention of family violence, multicultural affairs, LGBTIQA+ equality, veterans, women and youth. The work we do benefits thousands of Victorians, particularly those who are disadvantaged and vulnerable. We work in a variety of community-based settings, including people's homes, residential facilities and secure settings across metropolitan, rural and regional Victoria. We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated. All jobs can be worked flexibly, and we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. If you're having any trouble viewing this ad and would like it or any attachments in an accessible format (such as large print), please don't hesitate to get in touch with the contact person listed on the ad. For more information on working with us and our recruitment process, please visit Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Victoria | Jobs (www.dffh.vic.gov.au/jobs) THE ROLE Working in the Children, Families and Safeguarding Division, this Policy Officer role will undertake policy work and contribute to initiatives that promote and protect the safety and wellbeing of social service users, children and young people at risk of harm, abuse and neglect. The role will contribute to the development of research, analysis, papers, and policy briefings suitable for informing senior executive and ministerial decision making. The position will require excellent written and verbal communication skills, the ability to interpret research and data, and an understanding of policy, legislation and regulations in the Victorian context. The role holder will also have the skills and ability to use initiative to support delivery in a fast-paced and changing policy environment. ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDE • Provide advice and reasoned recommendations to complex and sensitive issues based on comprehensive research. • Contribute to the development of policy initiatives that meet government and departmental objectives, including by gathering, interpreting and analysing research, evidence and/or data. • Support team to monitor and report on high priority issues, risks and trends and prepare and present reports, ministerial briefs, Cabinet and agency submissions. Please open the position description to read more. HOW TO APPLY Applicants are encouraged to apply online. Attachments can be uploaded in .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt or .rtf formats. Applicants are required to submit a CV and Cover Letter (max 2 pages) outlining their suitability to the role in line with the Key Selection Criteria. Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process. Preferred candidates will be required to complete pre-employment screening, including a national police check and misconduct screening. For more information on working with us and our recruitment process, please visit Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Victoria | Jobs (www.dffh.vic.gov.au/jobs) Please apply to submit your interest in this position.