About The Role
We're seeking an experienced and strategic leader to drive the Department of Health's budget agenda and shape the long‑term sustainability of Victoria's health system. This role is ideal for someone who excels at building strong relationships, navigating complex priorities and unifying diverse work programs under a clear strategic direction.
As Director, Budget Strategy, you will lead the development and coordination of the department's whole‑of‑agency approach to the annual State Budget. Working closely with senior executives, ministerial offices and central agencies, you will ensure the department's budget submissions, Cabinet proposals, report‑backs and performance insights are cohesive, compelling and aligned with government priorities.
You will bring sound judgement, a solutions‑focused mindset and the ability to manage ambiguity in a fast‑paced environment. This role requires a deep understanding of the department's portfolio responsibilities and the capability to translate these into a clear, strategic budget narrative.
Leading a high‑performing VPS team and contributing as part of the Budget, Finance and Investment executive leadership group, you will influence key decisions that shape health outcomes for Victorians. If you thrive in complex systems and enjoy steering strategic change, this is an opportunity to make a significant impact.
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
We're looking for someone who can:
Lead the development of an over-arching narrative and strategy for the department's budget submissions taking account of input from divisions across the department and reflecting an agreed strategy for the financial sustainability of Victoria's health system.
Lead coordination and oversight of DH investment cases for the annual State Budget process, ensuring strong coherence and quality assurance of all cabinet submissions, business cases and other products.
Develop a strategy for the next three budgets, leveraging the opportunity to reset direction through incoming government briefs.
Provide targeted expert advice on financial management, demand projections and sustainability for the sector.
Provide expert financial advice to the DH Chief Finance Officer (CFO) regarding material financial movements affecting health portfolio.
Lead coordination of financial briefings to central agencies and Cabinet from across the department, including budget proposals, cost-control updates, and sector finance updates.
Expertise / Qualifications
Experience leading reform projects involving multiple government stakeholders and negotiating funding and performance expectations with DTF and central agencies.
A tertiary qualification in economics, law, public administration, finance or management fields would be desirable.
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.
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