Establishing a sound bedrock to support Victoria’s improved health infrastructure

February 2023 – October 2023

The challenge

The Victorian Department of Health’s Health Infrastructure Division (the Division), which includes the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA), is preparing to grow rapidly and sustainably to plan and deliver a ~$20b project pipeline of health infrastructure for Victoria. This investment is driving a significant uplift in the complexity, volume, size, and diversity of the Division’s infrastructure projects.

The Division is preparing for workforce capability and capacity growth; and designing an operating model with the right systems, capabilities and culture which is fit-for-purpose to deliver the expanded remit. 

The Division established a dedicated transformation program to deliver on this important growth agenda for Victorians and Proximity was engaged as an expert advisor and trusted partner to support throughout the process.

Approach

The Proximity team delivered advice and specialist support covering governance, change management, stakeholder engagement and workforce capability support.  

Proximity provided strategic guidance and counsel to the Deputy Secretary and senior executive leadership team, including onboarding and leading a team responsible for designing a future-ready operating model, priority recruitment and delivering a competitive approach to future talent growth for the Division.

The team also established governance arrangements and worked with key governing and decision-making groups to progress the Program. A tailored Project Management Plan was developed and Proximity liaised with key stakeholders across the Department to progress program deliverables. 

To support the Division to plan and manage this transition to a new operating model and structure, Proximity also provided change management expertise pending the recruitment of a change Lead. Our work included aligning program delivery with departmental Change Management frameworks and developing tailored communication messaging and materials setting out drivers and benefits of change, intranet and newsletter content and a presentation for an All Staff forum.

Value delivered

Through executive leadership and expert advice at critical stages of the transformation program, the Proximity team provided continuity and momentum for key activities. 

Proximity provided the Division with immediate support at an Executive level to ensure project continuity during recruitment processes and supported the onboarding of the new Executive Program Director.