The Australian Government is supporting Fiji’s health sector through the Australia Fiji Health Program (AFHP, the Program) working with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS).

The program’s high-level End of Program Outcomes (EOPOs) are:

• Improved systems are used by MHMS and health workers for evidence-based planning and resource allocation (workforce and budget), clinical care, digital health and medical supply chains; and
• Targeted healthcare facilities equitably deliver improved primary health services, with a focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and non-communicable disease (NCD) services.

The funding for the program is approximately AUD 45million over 9 years (5 years, with an option to extend a further 4 years) and delivered through a range of activities (interventions) to achieve the program’s objectives where implementation modalities include technical advice, procurement of technical services and goods, minor works and infrastructure upgrades, capacity building and training support, support to Ministry led initiatives and innovations, and grants to civil society organisations (CSOs).

AFHP is designed to support the MHMS achieve the goals and objectives in its Strategic Plan and Annual Operational Plans, and AFHP’s workplans are targeted to support specific components of the Ministry’s plans.

Recent natural disasters such as cyclones, and public health emergencies in Fiji including COVID-19 have highlighted major challenges for pandemic preparedness and response during epidemics and other health emergencies. In this context, around 10% of program funding will be allocated for MHMS to assign to emerging needs and priorities as they arise. Funding may be allocated toward preparedness and responses to public health emergencies, or related opportunities for reform and innovation.

Position Summary: 

The position ensures that the Ministry is conducting its business in full compliance with all laws and regulations pertaining to health and medical services, as well as professional standards, accepted business practices and internal policies and standards and manages the associated risks to the organization and stakeholders.

Personal character and eligibility

Applicants for employment must be of good character, with a background that demonstrates their commitment to the civil service values contained in the Fijian Constitution. Applicants must also be a Fijian Citizens, in sound health, aged below 60 with a clear police record.  The successful applicant will be required to provide a medical certificate and police clearance prior to taking up the duty.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applications are encouraged by all eligible, qualified applicants.  Only the specific knowledge, experience, skills, and abilities required for the job will be considered in assessing the relative suitability of applicants.

Key Responsibilities:

• Providing timely and strategic advice on all legislations/ Memorandum of Understanding/Agreement or other legal documentation pertaining to the Ministry in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
• Vetting the Ministry’s submissions/ responses regarding implementation/ breach of relevant legislation, Memorandum of Understanding/Agreement or other legal documentation in consultation with the Solicitor General’s office.
• Undertake internal and external consultation for the review/amendment/ drafting of the Ministry’s legislation.
• Conduct training for staff as required to ensure mandatory compliance with all the Ministry’s legislation.
• Active contribution in the corporate activities of the Ministry.
• Other duties assigned by supervisors in alignment with this TOR

Key performance indicators

Performance will be measured through the following indicators:

• Expert advice on legislative related matters is provided in a timely, accurate manner and in accordance with existing laws, regulations and policies.
• Internal Audits conducted with reports on the legislative enforcement adherence/breaches with mitigation suggestions submitted to Management.
• Timely review of the Ministry’s legislations
• Active participation in the Ministry’s corporate activities.

Key Working Relationships:

Reporting to:

• Permanent Secretary MHMS
• Senior Health Specialist AFHP

Other:

• Chief Medical Advisor
• MHMS Executive Support Unit
• Office of the Solicitor General

Selection Criteria:

Person specification

In addition to relevant bachelor”s degree in law (or equivalent) with at least 5 years” experience in providing legal advice, the applicant must have the following:

Knowledge and experience

• Working knowledge and experience in a leadership role involved in drafting/reviewing legislation, Memorandum of Understanding/ Agreement.
• Experience in problem solving and analysis including negotiations.
• Working knowledge and experience in conducting legislative adherence audits
• Experience in undertaking critical legal research and produce high quality and accurate reports

Skills and abilities

• Demonstrated ability to interpret laws and legislation.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems.
• Excellent communication and oral presentation skills.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and neutrality in the execution of this role.
• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to utilize computer programs to produce high quality documents.
• Demonstrated intellectual capacity, drive, innovation, and leadership.
• Service-oriented approach, with a commitment to supporting the operational/corporate environment of the organization.

How to Apply: