About the Department The role of the Department of Education is to support Victorians to build prosperous, socially engaged, happy and healthy lives. It does this by supporting lifelong learning and healthy development, strengthening families and helping to equip people with the skills and knowledge for a 21st century economy and society. About the Group Schools and Regional Services (SRS) offers central, regional, and local expertise to enhance learning and development outcomes, supported by a diverse and geographically dispersed workforce. It comprises 17 areas within 4 regions, backed by 5 central office divisions, all collaborating to deliver improved outcomes for early childhood services, schools, communities, and learners, in line with Education State commitments. SRS regions serve as a bridge between the central office, schools, and service providers, ensuring smooth transitions for learners and achieving the department's ambitious targets. Each region includes divisions specialising in school performance, student wellbeing and early childhood support, working with area-based teams to tailor local interventions and practices. The 17 areas provide crucial insights into local trends and issues, facilitating effective policy and program development and driving child and learner outcomes across all services and programs. This role is located in the Mental Health Unit, Student Wellbeing and Engagement Division, Region, SRS. The newly established Regional Mental Health Team will support schools in all aspects of student mental health and wellbeing, including implementation of the Mental Health Practitioners initiative, the Schools Mental Health Fund and Menu, and the Mental Health in Primary Schools program. The team will also have a role in supporting the development of partnerships between Areas and schools with key stakeholders, including local mental health services. About the Role Working as part of a Regional Mental Health Team, the Mental Health Coordinator will provide expert advice and operational support for the ongoing implementation, reporting and improvement of key mental health and wellbeing initiatives and reform in Victorian primary, secondary and specialist schools. The Mental Health Coordinator will provide operational support to help ensure effective implementation, reporting and improvement of three mental health related initiatives across the region to facilitate their contribution to improving students' mental health and wellbeing, and increased engagement of students in school. In particular, the Mental Health Coordinator will: be a key regional point of contact on mental health issues in liaison with Regional Mental Health Managers and Central Office provide data to central office on key indicators to inform the evaluation of key initiatives support the development of guidance and resources to enable: an integrated and consistent practice model across the Region (including coordination with Area teams and community mental health services) the implementation of alternative delivery options for difficult to fill positions (e.g. clustering, sharing facilities, engaging external suppliers) workforce planning (e.g. identification of opportunities for schools/services to work together) assist in the coordination of: professional supports for key workforces (e.g. MHPs) including Communities of Practice regional responses and liaison with relevant services where appropriate. This position will report to the Regional Mental Health Manager. For more information, see the Mental Health in Schools policy on the Policy and Advisory Library. The position will require travel across the region. Attributes Demonstrated specialist knowledge and expertise in mental health, with the ability to apply innovative thinking and sound judgement to complex issues affecting student wellbeing. Strong analytical and problem-solving capability, including the ability to identify underlying issues, assess stakeholder needs and develop practical, evidence-informed solutions. Proven capacity to support the improvement of school systems, practices and procedures that enhance student mental health and wellbeing outcomes. Highly developed stakeholder engagement and collaboration skills, with the ability to build and sustain effective working relationships across schools, services and departmental teams. Effective communicator who works constructively with colleagues and partners in both formal and informal contexts to achieve shared outcomes and drive continuous improvement. Qualifications and Experience Essential : Relevant tertiary qualification in mental health, education or related field. Desirable: Experience working in youth and adolescent mental health. The successful applicant will be required to provide a current Working With Children Check. How to Apply Applicants are required to submit a CV and cover letter (max 2 pages for cover letter) summarising skills, relevant experience and suitability to the role You are encouraged to address the key selection criteria including 2-3 referees (see position description) Further Information For more details regarding this position please see attached position description for the capabilities to address in application. The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person. Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at www.education.vic.gov.au. For further information pertaining to the role, please contact Carolyn Macaulay – Manager- Mental Health Branch via 0428 521 684 or carolyn.macaulay@education.vic.gov.au Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence. Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements. Applications close 11:59pm on Monday 27 April 2025
