Freedom of Information Officer

About the role

The Freedom of Information Officer within the Regulatory Practice Group administers Freedom of Information applications and related work under the Freedom of Information Act. The role is based in Fitzroy, is full time, and sits within the National Legal team, which delivers legal services across St Vincent's operations. The employer is St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, a leading teaching, research and tertiary health service.

Key responsibilities

• Apply and advise on the Freedom of Information Act, St Vincent's policies and guidance on handling health, personal and corporate information
• Handle FOI enquiries, including helping applicants lodge valid applications and processing requests or consulting with relevant parties
• Decide whether to release information, manage exemptions and draft correspondence on those decisions
• Review and respond to complaints to the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner and help coordinate its reviews
• Manage and document FOI processes and data reporting requirements

Required profile

• Experience as a Freedom of Information Officer (or equivalent), ideally in a legal practice or health service
• Demonstrated practical experience applying legislation and policy, with sound judgement on complex health information and FOI matters
• Ability to build trusted relationships with executives and staff across St Vincent's and with external stakeholders

Required skills

• In-depth knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act, its regulations and guidelines, and the internal and external review mechanisms
• Knowledge of the Health Records Act and other legislation relevant to health information, including the role of the Health Complaints Commissioner
• Ability to draft correspondence, templates, briefing material and reports on FOI obligations

What we offer

• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Wellbeing initiatives with regular events and programs
• Confidential, solutions-focused employee counselling
• A healthy work/life balance encouraged

Applicants submit a resume and cover letter; shortlisting starts immediately and the closing date is 21 November 2026. Mandatory vaccinations, including the flu shot, are required.