General Manager, Strategic Communications

About Court Services Victoria and the Courts Group

Court Services Victoria (CSV) delivers corporate services and facilities supporting judicial, quasi-judicial, and administrative functions across Victoria’s courts and tribunals, including the Judicial College and Judicial Commission. This collective, known as the Courts Group, encompasses the Supreme, County, Magistrates', Children's, and Coroners courts, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), the Judicial College of Victoria, and the Judicial Commission of Victoria. Our team enables these entities to meet their strategic priorities while pursuing interconnected opportunities that provide widespread benefits.

The Magistrates' Court of Victoria (MCV) boasts a longstanding role in delivering justice across metropolitan and regional locations. It handles more than 200,000 cases annually at 51 venues, accounting for over 90% of adult cases across Victorian courts. MCV strives to be innovative, accessible, responsive, and deliver high-quality services to the Victorian community.

Role Overview

The Magistrates' Court seeks an experienced, influential communications leader to shape its voice and reputation as Victoria’s largest court. As General Manager, Strategic Communications, you will oversee a proficient team managing media relations, crisis and issues management, internal and external communications, digital channels, and stakeholder engagement. Collaborating closely with the CEO, Chief Magistrate, and senior executives, you will provide expert advice on sensitive and high-profile matters, lead communication strategies that align with organizational priorities, and bolster public trust in the justice system.

Candidate Profile

This role suits a strategic thinker and exceptional communicator who excels in complex environments, understands policy and legislative contexts, and can simplify complex topics for broad audiences. You will be pivotal in narrating the Court’s story, spearheading significant communication projects, and aiding reforms that enhance justice access for all Victorians.

Key Qualifications and Attributes

• Proven leadership experience in strategic communications, media, crisis and issues management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong ability to build trusted relationships across government and justice sectors.
• Sound judgment coupled with a collaborative, values-driven approach.

Benefits

• Contribute to an organization integral to Victoria’s justice system delivering impactful community outcomes.
• Collaborate directly with senior leadership including the CEO and Chief Magistrate to drive communications and enhance reputation.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing communications team fostering innovation and best practices.
• Manage media relations, crisis communications, stakeholder engagement, digital media, and key strategic initiatives.
• Strengthen public confidence and support justice reforms that improve accessibility for all Victorians.
• Work within a values-based environment emphasizing integrity, respect, service excellence, and public value.
• Enjoy a flexible and supportive workplace culture prioritizing wellbeing, inclusion, and professional growth.

Diversity and Inclusion

CSV is committed to increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation within its workforce through its Koori Employment Plan and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ communities, women, people of all ages, those with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and neurodiverse applicants. Reasonable adjustments and alternative application formats are available upon request.

Recruitment

Candidates will undergo standard pre-employment screenings including references, police, and misconduct checks conducted confidentially to ensure suitability for the role and the organization.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit a resume and a concise cover letter outlining their suitability for the position.