• Full-time permanent role.
• Hybrid working model.
• $115k – $120k dependent on experience + 12% Super + NFP Salary Packaging.

YOUR IMPACT

Diabetes Victoria is seeking an experienced and strategic Policy, Strategy and Research Lead to shape evidence-based policy, strengthen research partnerships and support the implementation of our 2024–2030 organisational strategy.

This senior role will bring together evidence, lived experience and stakeholder expertise to influence policy and funding decisions, advance research priorities and advocate for improved systems and outcomes for people living with or at risk of diabetes.

Reporting to the Head of Health Policy and Research, you will lead a team working across community engagement, research, evidence and evaluation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of evidence-based policy positions, briefings, submissions and funding proposals that influence government policy and practice.
• Build collaborative relationships with government, research institutions, healthcare organisations, industry, community representatives and people with lived experience.
• Oversee Diabetes Victoria’s research strategy and strategic research partnerships, supporting the translation of research into improved treatments, services and practices.
• Lead initiatives supporting the continued development, growth and sustainability of the Diabetes Innovation and Impact Foundation.
• Work with the Leadership Team to coordinate business planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the Diabetes Victoria 2024–2030 Strategy.
• Identify evidence, data and indicators that measure diabetes impacts, outcomes and organisational progress.
• Provide professional leadership, supervision and project direction to a team of three staff while supporting a collaborative and positive workplace culture.

ABOUT YOU

You are a strategic, collaborative leader who can interpret complex evidence, develop clear recommendations, and build partnerships that achieve positive health outcomes. You are an influential communicator who can adapt your approach for government, research, healthcare, community and internal audiences.

• A bachelor’s degree in public health, health science, health policy or a related discipline.
• A proven track record of working with the research sector to achieve positive health impacts.
• Experience developing briefings, position papers or submissions that influence policy and funding decisions.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to build collaborative, enduring partnerships.
• Highly developed strategic, conceptual and analytical skills, with the ability to translate complex information into practical recommendations.
• Strong planning, project management and organisational skills, including the ability to manage priorities, resources and milestones.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages for different audiences.

The successful candidate will be required to complete a current Victorian Police Check and Working with Children Check.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Salary Packaging: Access up to $15,900 tax-free each FBT year (+ $2,650 meals/entertainment).
• Hybrid work model: Balanced working-from-home and office-based arrangements.
• Inclusive, mission-driven culture: Work alongside passionate individuals and health promotion leaders.
• Professional growth: Access to online learning modules and clinical development opportunities.
• Wellbeing benefits: Discounted gym membership for you and your family, mental health wellbeing day, additional gifted leave days, EAP access, and more.
• Impact: Be part of building and expanding an innovative, technology-focused diabetes service that improves lives across Victoria.

OUR COMMITMENT

Diabetes Victoria recognises that people affected by diabetes come from every community and walk of life.

We are committed to fostering a respectful, welcoming and inclusive environment for the people we support, our employees, volunteers and partners. We strive to ensure our services, workplaces and communications are accessible, equitable and culturally safe, and we are committed to continuous learning and improvement in inclusion and belonging. If you need adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.

Hit the ‘Apply’ button and submit your resume and cover letter outlining your skills and what you can bring to this exciting role. The closing date for applications is Monday, October 5th 2026; we may review applications before then.

For a confidential discussion about the role or process, please contact hr@diabetesvic.org.au.

No agency applications, please.