Fiji Program Support Platform (FPSP)

Locally Engaged Role - commencing August 2025 to 31 December 2027 with possibility of 2-year extension   Based in Suva, Fiji

Program Overview: 

FPSP, also referred to as the ‘Platform’, a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) investment, will contribute to the delivery of Fiji’s national development priorities, in line with the Australia’s International Development Policy, the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership and the Development Partnership Plan.  

The Platform will deliver key bilateral programs, such as health, education, scholarships, social infrastructure, governance, climate and emergency preparedness and response. Platform activities will identify and address climate risks, promote climate action, and gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) across and beyond the sector programs. 

The Platform has three functional Outcomes:  

The Platform has delivered its sector program outcomes, including through supporting strategic coherence, planning, partnerships management, data and learning across the portfolio of investments. The Platform has prioritised gender equality, disability-inclusive development, and climate and disaster resilience, in its systems and practices. This includes in how it undertakes sector programming and its engagement with selected Government of Fiji (GoF) agencies The Platform administers timely and efficient programming that is: value for money; maximises use of local supply chains; and supports good governance, and public diplomacy, effective decision making and risk management. 

AFHP Overview:

The Fiji Program Support Platform (the Platform) implements over fifty percent of Australia’s bilateral development support to Fiji across a range of sector programs in education, health, Australia Awards, disaster response, cyclone recovery, social infrastructure and technical assistance to improve public sector governance in Fiji.  

The Platform integrates cross-cutting themes, including gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI), climate and disaster resilience, across sectoral programs. In particular, the Platform seeks to strengthen program outcomes by better addressing the needs of targeted beneficiaries including those who are often marginalised.

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 Program Data Officer is an entry level role supporting Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MEL) functions to strengthen evidence-based decision-making across AFHP. Working under the guidance of the MEL Specialist, the role involves managing and analysing data, supporting reporting and evaluation efforts, and ensuring data quality and governance compliance.

Key responsibilities include timely collection and validation of indicator data, preparation of clean datasets for evaluations and learning activities, and direct support for compiling MEL reports. The officer will develop tools and systems for efficient data collection, implement quality assurance procedures, and maintain secure databases. They will also lead in generating data briefs, dashboards, and summaries for high-level meetings, and respond to partner, donor, and stakeholder queries with accurate, data-driven information.

This position requires strong analytical, organisational, and communication skills, along with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement in data and MEL systems. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Under the guidance of the AFHP Senior MEL Specialist, the Program Data Officer will support/assist with 

Data Management 

Collect, validate, and manage indicator data aligned to the MEL framework.  Aggregate, clean, and prepare datasets for evaluations and learning events.  Maintain accurate data repositories and ensure timely reporting.  Ensure proper labelling and storage of AFHP documents on SharePoint. 

Data Collection and Quality Assurance 

Design and implement data tools (surveys, forms, databases) to support program monitoring.  Apply quality control procedures for data integrity, accuracy, and completeness.  Maintain secure, functional databases with controlled access. 

Data Analysis and Reporting 

Conduct quantitative and qualitative analysis to inform program planning.  Produce dashboards, summaries, and visualizations for strategic meetings and reports.  Support baseline, midline, and endline assessments.  Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs). 

Data Governance and Compliance 

Ensure data protection in line with privacy laws and organizational policies.  Contribute to the development of data governance frameworks and policies.  Conduct regular audits to monitor compliance and address gaps. 

Technical Support and Capacity Building 

Train and support staff in using data systems and tools.  Assist in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues.  Promote a culture of data use for continuous learning and program improvement. 

Secretariat and Stakeholder Engagement 

Prepare data briefs and presentations for high-level meetings and donor reporting.  Draft data-informed updates for internal and external stakeholders.  Collaborate across teams and with government counterparts to align data systems. 

Cross-Cutting Responsibilities 

Embed GEDSI and safeguarding principles into all data-related processes.  Support other duties as assigned by the MEL Specialist in line with program priorities

Key Working Relationships: 

Reporting to:  Senior MEL Specialist – Health.  

Selection Criteria: 

Qualifications 

Tertiary qualifications in any or a combination of Public Health, Statistics, Data Science, Information management, MEL. Credentials in the use of statistical software and/or graphic design would be advantageous. 

Experience 

2 - 3 years of experience in data management, M&E, or research support within development, public health, education, or other social sector programs.  Knowledge of MEL frameworks, indicator tracking, and evaluation processes.  Some experience managing large datasets, data analysis, and generating reports for program improvement and donor reporting.  Prior involvement in supporting cross-sectoral or high-level secretariat functions is an advantage.  Familiarity with safeguarding and GEDSI mainstreaming in data and MEL processes. 

Knowledge and Skills Required

The role requires strong knowledge of MEL frameworks, indicator tracking, and evaluation processes, alongside proven skills in managing and analysing large datasets.   The candidate should be proficient in data tools and systems, able to generate reports and visualizations, and experienced in supporting strategic meetings and stakeholder communications.   Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to train others and promote data-driven decision-making.   An understanding of data governance, safeguarding, and the integration of Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) principles is also critical. 

Personal Attributes  

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce high-level reports and briefs and effectively present ideas.  Comprehensive understanding of the structure and organisation of the Fiji Health System.  Proficient in using Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant data analysis software applications.  Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to gather information, influence others with diplomacy, tact, and discretion, and engage individuals at all levels with respect and confidence. This includes strong presentation skills and experience presenting to large groups.  Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team and work independently, demonstrating initiative when required.  Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks, meet tight deadlines, and work flexibly when needed.  High level of personal integrity and professionalism.

How to apply  

Applications close on 3 August 2025. 

Please apply online by submitting a cover letter addressing how you meet the requirements of this role and an up-to-date comprehensive CV.   

#LI-AUSBRIT #LI-HN1