Media and Communications Advisor
- Band 6, $96,344 - $114, 153 + super + monthly day off
- Hybrid work model, Officer and Pakenham location
- Full time, maximum term role until September 2027
- Be part of a supportive, collaborative and high-performing Communications, Engagement and Customer team.
- Deliver meaningful work that helps inform, connect and positively impact the Cardinia Shire community.
- Enjoy a dynamic and varied role where no two days are the same, with opportunities to work across media, digital content, events and strategic communications.
- Join an organisation that values innovation, community connection, integrity and professional growth.
About Us
As one of Victoria’s fastest‑growing municipalities, Cardinia Shire Council is an innovative and community‑focused organisation committed to delivering high‑quality services for our residents. We’re driven by curiosity, continuous improvement, and a genuine passion for creating a thriving, connected, and sustainable place to live and work.
We’re invested in our people and champion a culture where diverse perspectives are valued, learning is encouraged, and your contribution has real impact. If you’re motivated, community‑minded, and looking to build a meaningful career in local government, you’ll find opportunity and purpose here at Cardinia
About the opportunity
Are you a skilled communications professional with a passion for media, storytelling and building strong community connections? As our Media and Communications Advisor, you will play a key role in driving proactive media engagement, building trust and confidence in Council and delivering strategic communications that keep our community informed and connected.
This is an exciting opportunity to work across a diverse range of projects, identify and promote positive stories, manage media enquiries, provide strategic communications advice and support the delivery of timely, accurate and transparent information to the community.
You will make an impact by
- Developing engaging content across media releases, statements, social media, digital platforms, publications and other communication channels.
- Identifying and driving proactive media opportunities that showcase Council initiatives, achievements and outcomes.
- Building and maintaining positive relationships with local and metropolitan media outlets to promote Council initiatives and achievements.
- Managing media enquiries, responses and interview requests, ensuring accurate, timely and professional communications.
- Providing strategic communications advice on sensitive and emerging issues, supporting effective issues and reputation management.
- Monitoring media coverage and public sentiment, preparing insights and reports to inform communication strategies.
- Supporting crisis communications and emergency communications activities to help protect and enhance Council's reputation.
- Capturing and sharing compelling stories through photography, videography and event-based communications.
What you will bring
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages for a variety of audiences and channels.
- Demonstrated experience in media relations, including pitching stories, managing media enquiries, preparing spokesperson materials and securing positive coverage.
- Strong understanding of news values, media environment and reputation management principles.
- Proven ability to create strategic, high-quality communication materials that inform, engage and influence audiences.
- Strong interpersonal, negotiation and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to work effectively with media, stakeholders and colleagues.
- Sound judgement, decision-making skills and the ability to respond calmly and professionally to sensitive, high-profile or complex communications matters.
- Ability to work professionally, diplomatically and confidentially while responding to enquiries and community concerns.
- A collaborative and customer-focused approach, with a genuine commitment to delivering helpful, accurate and timely communication outcomes.
Why work with us
- Activity based and hybrid work model.
- Opportunities to work on innovative and impactful initiatives that make a real difference to the community.
- Professional development opportunities, including training and education programs, and leadership development initiatives.
- A commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, with initiatives to reduce the Council's carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices in the community.
- A focus on work-life balance, with programs and initiatives designed to support employees' physical and mental well-being.
- Discover these benefits and how we support and value our employees throughout their career journey. Click here.
To apply
- Please complete the online application form, including your resume and a brief cover letter demonstrating your suitability to the role.
- Applications close, 4th September 2026.
- For further information regarding the role, please contact Laurie Baran, Team Leader Strategic Communications, on 03 5943 4816 or refer to the position description.
Cardinia Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer committed to an equitable, diverse, and socially inclusive work environment and a positive, barrier-free recruitment process. We welcome applicants from an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, people living with a disability, LGBTIQ+ and people from culturally diverse backgrounds to explore career opportunities with Cardinia Shire Council. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application by contacting us on 1300 787 624.
All successful applicants will be required to undertake a National Police Check and pre-employment medicals. Certain positions may also require a Financial Background Check, Traffic Check or Working with Children Check.
You must have valid Australian Working Rights to be considered for this role.
