Are you passionate about fostering inclusive workplaces? An exciting opportunity exists to join the Employee Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement team as a Senior Policy Advisor. Two vacancies are available: 1 x ongoing VPS 5 Senior Policy Advisor 1 x fixed term VPS 5 Senior Policy Advisor (until 31 December 2027) We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Victorian community. We actively encourage applications from people of diverse and intersecting backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, people with caring responsibilities, culturally and linguistically diverse people, LGTBIQA people, and women. If you require any adjustments or have questions, please contact us. About the Role The Senior Policy Advisor leads strategic advice provision, project management, stakeholder engagement, and progress reporting to drive strategic initiatives aligned with departmental objectives such as the as part of the Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, and whole of VPS frameworks and commitments. The role leads effective governance, collaboration, partnership with stakeholders, and works strategically to lift the capability building of people leaders and promote inclusive workplaces across all department workplaces. The role does not involve formal management of staff however requires leadership, advising people leaders and supporting others to foster employee engagement and inclusion. The ideal candidate will be an experienced and motivated diversity and inclusion professional with exceptional strategic thinking skills and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans. The successful candidate will join the team at an exciting time to shape the workplan and influence a newly formed branch. About the Department The department 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 The People Strategy and Operations (VPS) Division is responsible for the department's human resources policies and services for the department's Victorian Public Service (VPS) workforce. It provides end-to-end people services, strategic workplace relations advice and support, employee learning and inclusion programs and support, workforce data analytics and strategic planning, and manages corporate office working places and environmental sustainability. About the Role The Senior Policy Advisor leads strategic advice provision, project management, stakeholder engagement, and progress reporting to drive strategic initiatives aligned with departmental objectives such as the as part of the Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, and whole of VPS frameworks and commitments. The role leads effective governance, collaboration, partnership with stakeholders, and works strategically to lift the capability building of people leaders and promote inclusive workplaces across all department workplaces. The role does not involve formal management of staff however requires leadership, advising people leaders and supporting others to foster employee engagement and inclusion. The ideal candidate will be an experienced and motivated diversity and inclusion professional with exceptional strategic thinking skills and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans. The successful candidate will join the team at an exciting time to shape the workplan and influence a newly formed branch.Attributes The Senior Policy Advisor requires strong skills in: * stakeholder management and influence * organisational awareness and context * policy development and implementation * written and verbal communications for senior executives and a wide range of audiences. Desirable Qualifications and Experience Familiarity with relevant legislation (for example gender equality, human rights, equal opportunity, anti-discrimination laws) and inclusive workplace policy is highly desirable. How to apply Applicants are encouraged to include a Curriculum Vitae and a Cover letter addressing the key selection criteria provided 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 Indika Patel, Manager via (03) 8688 7823 or Indika.patel@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 in 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 27/02/2026