About Us

The Victorian Ombudsman (VO) provides a free, independent, accessible and impartial service to the public. Our purpose is to ensure fairness for the public in their dealings with the Victorian public sector, to improve public administration, and engage within both public organisations, the government sector and the broader community. The Ombudsman Act 1973 (Vic) is the governing legislation.

The VO’s role is to ensure that the services of state and local government, and other public organisations are delivered in a fair and reasonable manner that is compatible with the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic) and that human rights have been taken into consideration in decision making.

About this role

The Prevention Division plays a lead role in the VO’s work to prevent unfairness and harm. Through engaging with the community and public sector, we raise awareness, strengthen capability and build the VO’s profile. The division includes the VO’s public policy and intelligence and reviews functions and leads education and communication activities as well as stakeholder engagement to inform and educate the public sector and community. The division aims to maximise VO’s impact, build trust and drive meaningful, positive change.

The Strategic Policy and Research Officer is accountable for:

- Conducting high-quality research, analysis and contributing to the development of public policy to achieve VO’s strategic objectives.




- Developing high-quality briefings and conducting analysis on contemporary and emerging issues and risks.
- Liaising and consulting with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the achievement of project objectives and deliverables.
- Developing written reports, papers and guidance materials.

Core to your success in this role is the ability to obtain a strong understanding of the Ombudsman Act 1973 (Vic).

Please review the position description for full details.

How to apply:

Applications need to be submitted online via the ‘Apply Now' button.

To be considered for this role, you must include:

- a 1-page Cover Letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria.
- a Resume, no longer than 5 pages.

Applications close midnight Wednesday 7 October 2026.

VO is an equal chance employer and is committed to providing an inclusive, accessible and safe work environment. We want to ensure all applicants and employees with disability are treated respectfully and equitably in all stages of the recruitment process.

We encourage job applications from people of all genders, ages, religions, disability, LGBTIQ and cultures, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

VO is committed to supporting our employees work and life balance commitments. All requests for flexible working arrangements will be considered in line with operational requirements.

Employment at the Victorian Ombudsman is subject to:

- Criminal Record check
- Working with Children check
- Statutory Declaration
- Confidentiality Agreement
- Conflict of Interest check

📌 Strategic Policy and Research Officer (Melbourne)
🏢 Victorian Ombudsman
📍 Melbourne