Media Advisor

Overview

Hume City Council, one of Australia's rapidly expanding and ethnically diverse councils, is seeking a Media Advisor to join its Strategic Communications & Advocacy team. This permanent full-time position offers an annual salary of $99,526.96 plus superannuation and is based in Broadmeadows, Victoria.

Role and Responsibilities

• Lead and execute proactive media campaigns promoting council projects, services, and events aligned with organisational goals.
• Spot and create opportunities for positive media exposure to highlight council achievements and community benefits.
• Draft various communications including media releases, statements, media kits, key messages, briefing papers, and spokesperson talking points.
• Continuously monitor media coverage, community sentiment, and emerging topics across traditional and digital platforms, assessing their impact on the council's reputation.
• Identify reputational, political, and stakeholder risks; escalate concerns with supporting evidence and analysis.
• Advise internal stakeholders by offering media insights and recommendations to enhance communication efforts.
• Utilise media analysis and community feedback to guide communication planning and campaign development.
• Deliver timely, comprehensive reports and briefings to the Executive Leadership Team and other decision makers to support strategic choices.

Required Experience and Skills

• Proven expertise in media relations, public relations, corporate communications, or related fields.
• Experienced in creating diverse content for multiple audience types and communication channels.
• Strong skills in fostering and maintaining productive relationships with journalists, media outlets, and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to manage competing demands and perform effectively in a dynamic, politically sensitive environment.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of simplifying complex information into clear and engaging messages.
• Proficiency in monitoring media outlets, spotting emerging issues, and advising on communication strategy.
• Sound judgment to identify and handle reputational risks and sensitive matters responsibly.
• Understanding of local government or public sector contexts and the dynamics affecting reputation and stakeholder views.
• A commitment to continuous improvement, teamwork, and high-quality communication outcomes.

Qualifications and Additional Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or equivalent experience.
• Possession of a current driver's licence.

Work Culture and Values

Hume City Council prides itself on fostering an inclusive, collaborative workplace that embodies the following values:

• We’re better, every day: Encouraging progress, learning, and initiative over perfection.
• We’re in it together: Emphasizing inclusivity, respect, safety, and belonging for all.
• We show up: Trusting and empowering staff to deliver on commitments with accountability.
• All for Hume: Passionate dedication to achieving positive community outcomes.

Additional Information

The organisation is an equal opportunity employer and a child safe workplace. It encourages applications from people of all ages, individuals with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQA+ individuals, and culturally diverse backgrounds.

Applicants must undergo background checks including references, Working with Children Check, and criminal record screening.

Applications will be reviewed continuously until a sufficient number of suitable candidates are identified. Early application submission is recommended.