Media Advisor

About the role

This position leads delivery of all the Parliamentarians' external communications, including across traditional and social media, providing key advice on responses to current events and ongoing media strategies and campaigns. The role will involve frequent travel within the electorate and interstate travel to Canberra. Occasional irregular work hours, particularly during parliamentary sitting weeks will also be required. (An alternative work base may be available to an eligible candidate seeking a remote or Canberra based working arrangement).

Key responsibilities

• Develop, manage and implement a comprehensive media and communications strategy for the Member, including social media, website content, advertising, public relations, media releases, e-newsletters, speeches, talking points, briefing materials, mailouts and events.

• Monitor and interpret local, national and parliamentary news, media, social media and emerging issues, providing the Member with timely, accurate and strategic briefings on matters of public interest, political developments, stakeholder concerns and emerging risks and opportunities.

• Coordinate and manage daily media enquiries, interviews, media conferences and other media opportunities, while developing and maintaining effective relationships with media organisations, stakeholders and the community.

• Liaise with media outlets, stakeholders, community organisations and other relevant parties to effectively promote the Member's activities, priorities, policies and initiatives.

• Provide strategic political advice to the Member, including advice on emerging political issues, internal party considerations, public sentiment and opportunities to support the Member's priorities and re-election objectives.

• Conduct research and analysis on proposed legislation, government policy, constituency issues and emerging matters, preparing clear, concise and evidence-based briefings, recommendations and talking points to support informed decision-making.

• Plan, coordinate and manage communications and media events, including logistics, promotional activities, media attendance and follow-up.

• Manage the Member's photographic and communications content library, ensuring material is current, appropriately stored and supported by all required permissions and authorisations.

• Review and prepare correspondence, reports, speeches, briefing papers and other written material to a high professional standard and within required timeframes.

• Work collaboratively with the Finance Electorate Officer to plan, monitor and manage the communications, advertising and printing budget effectively.

• Undertake regular interstate travel to Australian Parliament House, accompanying the Member as required and providing executive, communications and secretarial support during parliamentary sitting periods.

• Identify and proactively manage communications, political and reputational risks, developing appropriate strategies to mitigate risks and maximise opportunities.

• Promote, support and maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace culture and contribute positively to the effective operation of the Electorate Office.

• Undertake other duties as required to support the Member and the effective operation of the Electorate Office.

About you

• Strong written and verbal communications skills.

• Firm understanding of the Australian media and communications environment.

• Sound knowledge of the Australian parliamentary and political system.

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders.

• Ability to manage and prioritise complex matters under tight deadlines while exercising a high level of analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Demonstrated experience in working in a high-pressure environment as part of a team.

• Demonstrated professional integrity and the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.

• A respectful demeanour when engaging with office staff and constituents.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple projects and priorities while consistently meeting strict deadlines.

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 $79,525 and $92,846 will be negotiated depending on experience and relevant skills. 

• An additional optional allowance of up to $33,615 may be considered in recognition of, and as compensation for, reasonable additional hours of work and any travel requirements.  

• 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

• 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.