Media Adviser (Adviser 3) - Melissa McIntosh MP

The office of Melissa McIntosh MP is seeking applications for a full-time ongoing Media Adviser based in Penrith NSW or Canberra ACT.

Position Overview

As the main point of contact for engagement with journalists, the Media Adviser leads, develops and implements the Shadow Minister’s media and communications strategy.

The key duties of the position include but are not limited to:

• Providing expert and timely advice on priority, complex media, communications and strategic matters focussed on effective engagement with audiences and constituents.

• Writing and editing media releases, speeches, social media posts, statements, op-eds and reports and newsletters that communicate policy and the work of the Shadow Minister.

• Preparing the Shadow Minister for media interviews and public communications.

• Creating and producing engaging content and messaging to communicate with a broad constituency from diverse communities and in a range of locations.

• Maintaining effective, professional relationships with journalists to communicate the policy agenda.

• Managing relationships with stakeholders, and effectively engaging with them on the work of the Parliamentarian.

• Policy work as required.

• Travel within the electorate and/or to Canberra with irregular work hours, particularly during parliamentary sitting weeks.

• Promoting, supporting and maintaining a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace culture.

• Performing other duties as required by the Shadow Minister and Chief of Staff.

The ideal applicant should possess the following skills, qualifications, and experience:

• High-level experience in media/communications and public relations and is highly motivated, driving proactive and reactive public engagement.

• Ability to engage with journalists and relevant content creators.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with attention to detail and the ability to distil complex issues into easily understood messages.

• Ability to work under pressure, to tight deadlines in a team environment with competing and changing priorities.

• High-level proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office software and other relevant office and content creation applications, as well as social media platforms and associated programs.

• Experience in policy development, research, or advisory roles in a political, parliamentary, or campaign environment will be highly regarded.

• Qualifications in journalism, public affairs or another relevant discipline will be highly regarded.

• Proven ability to operate astutely in a political environment where the ability to apply strategic and lateral thinking in the resolution of issues is essential together with a high level of integrity, discretion and confidentiality.

Employment conditions:

The position is offered under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act (1984) and conditions are outlined in the Commonwealth Members of Parliament Staff Enterprise Agreement 2024-27 which include:

• A commencing salary between $113,521 and $160,043 per annum (pro-rata for part-time) will be negotiated depending on experience and relevant skills.

• An additional Personal Staff Allowance of $35,387 per annum (pro-rata for part-time) may be payable in recognition of, and as compensation for, reasonable additional hours of work. 

• Relocation assistance, studies assistance and paid study leave may also be available (subject to eligibility requirements).

• An employer superannuation contribution of 15.4% will be payable.

Applicants should note the following:

• This position is based in Penrith or Canberra with travel between as required.

• An initial probationary period of three months may apply and may be subject to extension.

• The successful applicant may be required to undergo a National Police History Check.

• Staff may be subject to automatic cessation triggers in accordance with Section 14 of the MOP(S) Act.

• The successful applicant will be required to comply with their obligations under the Behaviour Codes and Standards.

How to Apply

Applications consisting of a short covering letter addressing your interest in the position and relevant experiences, your CV and the names of two referees should be emailed to sarah.roberts@aph.gov.au  

For further information please contact Sarah Roberts on 04•• ••• 288.

Applications close on Sunday, 23 August 2026.