Senior Policy Officer (Identified)
Senior Policy Officer (Identified)
Join our Mental Health Branch, Aboriginal Mental Health Team at Ministry of Health for an exciting ongoing opportunity with NSW Health and be part of the team enriching health in millions of ways every day.
About us
- Build your career in Aboriginal Mental Health policy.
- We offer robust development and growth support to all our employees, ensuring you have the resources and opportunities to thrive in your career.
- Our core values of collaboration, openness, respect, and empowerment are more than just words - they're the guiding principles that shape every aspect of our work.
- We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace for all.
To learn more about the Ministry and what benefits we offer, access our Employee Benefits Handbook.
Whilst this position is open to all individuals, it is targeted to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people under section 21 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply and consideration will be given to suitable Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants to promote equal or improved access. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants must demonstrate Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status in addition to addressing the selection criterion.
About this role
This is a position identified for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people on the basis of a genuine occupational qualification under section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.
Are you passionate about improving Aboriginal mental health and social and emotional wellbeing outcomes and making meaningful impact across NSW? With your skills and experience, you can contribute to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people in NSW while developing your career as part of the largest public health system in Australia.
The Aboriginal Mental Health team is committed to strengthening the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal people across the lifespan. Working in partnership across the health system and with communities, the team drives initiatives that support Closing the Gap and the implementation of the NSW Aboriginal Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2020-2025.
As a Senior Policy Officer, you will play a key role in leading the development, coordination, and delivery of strategic policies, programs, and initiatives that improve access to and quality of culturally safe mental health services for Aboriginal people across NSW.
Crown Clerk 9/10, starting salary from $133,348 - $146,945 plus Super and annual leave loading, with a 35-hour work week.
For more information, please read the full Role Description.
What you'll be doing
- Lead and coordinate the development, implementation and evaluation of policies, programs and initiatives that support Aboriginal mental health and social and emotional wellbeing outcomes across NSW
- Provide high-level policy advice and support to senior executives and stakeholders on Aboriginal mental health priorities, ensuring alignment with strategic frameworks and Closing the Gap commitments
- Prepare high-quality written materials, including briefs, reports, policy papers and correspondence, to inform decision-making and drive reform
- Develop and maintain strong, respectful partnerships with stakeholders across NSW Health, other government agencies, and Aboriginal organisations and communities
- Support effective governance, planning and program delivery within the Aboriginal Mental Health team, contributing to system-wide improvements in culturally safe and responsive services.
About you
We are seeking motivated and committed individuals who can support the work of NSW Health with:
- Demonstrated understanding of Aboriginal social, cultural and political contexts, and the ability to apply this knowledge to the development and delivery of Aboriginal mental health and social and emotional wellbeing policies, programs and initiatives
- Proven ability to build and sustain respectful, effective relationships with Aboriginal communities, organisations and a wide range of stakeholders
- Experience working collaboratively across government and non-government sectors to support improved outcomes for Aboriginal people
- Strong communication and writing skills, with the ability to prepare clear and high-quality policy advice, briefs and reports
- A commitment to cultural safety, continuous learning and contributing positively within a small, dynamic team environment
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Relevant tertiary qualifications or demonstrated equivalent experience in policy, programs or Aboriginal health/mental health sectors
How to apply
At The Ministry of Health, we want you to make the most of the opportunities you'll get to grow your skills and your career, surrounded by authentic, smart people and leaders.
Please review the role description and submit your up-to-date resume (up to 5 pages) and cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining your interest and motivation in applying for this role and highlighting your relevant skills.
Use the link below to access our Capability Application tool, designed to help you excel in the recruitment process. Practice your responses with the example questions provided to effectively highlight your achievements and the strategies you used to accomplish them.
Capability application tool | NSW Public Service Commission
For role related queries or questions contact [email protected] and quote REQ658505.
As an organisation we are committed to creating an accessible and inclusive workplace. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact Khloe Yang on [email protected]
For more information about adjustments for individual needs, please visit the Adjustments for individual needs | I Work For NSW and Inclusive recruitment of people with disability | NSW Government
Closing Date: Monday 3 August 2026 (11:59PM)
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion
At the Ministry of Health, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and flexible environment which reflects the community and customers we serve. We actively promote the employment of women, people with a disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQ+ community and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. For more information, please visit Diversity Inclusion Belonging
If you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and would like assistance with your application or to obtain more information on how to apply, please visit The Stepping Up Initiative.
To be eligible for employment in these roles you must be an Australian citizen, or a permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen, or hold a valid visa with permission to work in Australia.
Additional information
- This is a position identified for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people on the basis of a genuine occupational qualification under section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.
- This recruitment may be used to create a Talent Pool for similar future roles (ongoing or temporary) that may arise over the next 18 months.
- For more information on applying visit the Ministry of Health Career portal
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Please note the selection process will include a range of comparative assessment techniques to assist in determining your suitability for the role.
Don't miss your chance to embark on this fulfilling journey! Apply now!
Applications Close: Monday 3 August 2026 (11:59PM)
