About the role:
The Privacy Special Counsel provides expert technical policy and legal advice to Ministers, the Secretary, the Department and relevant Administrative Offices on a range of privacy and information sharing issues, whilst coordinating privacy compliance and strategies on a range of strategic departmental and statewide projects. The role also provides oversight of the management of privacy breaches across the department, identifies and monitors emerging privacy related risks and provides privacy specific training to departmental staff.
The successful applicant will be a subject matter expert in delivering legal and policy advice to government, with a proven ability to influence legislative reform and policy development in alignment with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014, the Health Records Act 2001, and other relevant enabling legislation.
This position is critical to ensuring the department in collaboration with other key agencies, proactively manages and mitigates privacy risks and complies with all relevant public sector values, policies and legislative requirements whilst delivering the government's objectives.
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 successful applicant will be a subject matter expert in delivering legal and policy advice to government, with a proven ability to influence legislative reform and policy development in alignment with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014, the Health Records Act 2001, and other relevant enabling legislation.
You will be required to demonstrate the following
* Demonstrate expert and specialist knowledge, driving and delivering statewide projects;
* Lead, guide and develop staff in this specialist area;
* Develop and implement continuous improvement in practice, policies and influence legislation related to privacy and information sharing functions across and external to the department; and
* Support clients and maintain positive relationships by actively working with stakeholders.
Qualifications / Specialist Expertise
* The successful candidate must hold (or be eligible to hold) a current practicing certificate under the Legal Profession Act 2004 (Vic).
* Minimum of 8 years post legal admission experience.
* Extensive experience working within Privacy and Information Sharing and the provision of legal and policy advice to government, along with strong statutory interpretation and leadership skills is required.
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.
Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. Information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence in line with our Privacy Policy.