THE ROLE
The Community Engagement Recovery Officer is responsible for identifying and embedding evidence-informed approaches, knowledge and practices, attained through current and previous recovery programs, to improve the long-term health and wellbeing of impacted communities. Key to this is the ability to respectfully and effectively engage the community and key stakeholders, including: communities impacted by the January 2026 fires, Councils, the funded sector, partner agencies, the department and other emergency entities within and across the Victorian Government.
Reporting to the Manager, Emergency Recovery Support Program, this position will operate as part of a dynamic team supporting communities with their recovery, in collaboration with the department's Operational Divisions. The role will play a key role in the delivery of the Victorian Emergency Recovery Support Program, focusing on supporting affected people with complex recovery needs through planning, undertaking and delivering community engagement activities. The role also provides project management, program oversight, strategic support and implementation to support the department to meet its emergency management monitoring, coordination and reporting obligations.
The role also provides the Public Engagement Branch and senior department leaders and executive with timely and informed advice on matters that relate to internal and external stakeholder communications and community engagement, including current and emerging risks and issues, as well as opportunities and areas for improvement and innovation.
This role will also contribute to the 24-hour, 7-day-a-week preparedness and operations of state-wide emergency response activities in line with departmental guidelines, including undertaking the role of State Duty Officer on a rostered and on call basis.
ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDE
* Support the departments social recovery response following the January 2026 fires, to ensure the effective delivery of the department's Emergency Recovery Support Program to support affected communities.
* Working with Operational Divisions, Emergency Management Regional Units and other relevant stakeholders within the department
* Manage and oversee the full life cycle of projects and/or engagement activities to meet organisational objectives.
Please open the position description to read more.
This role requires a Working with Children Check.
For more information on what this means, and all other requirements, please see the Position Description.
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.