• Lead advocacy efforts for progressive Council in key sand belt seats
• Influence key projects, policy and funding outcomes
• Full time permanent role – Cheltenham, Melbourne
• Circa $117,000

About us

Kingston Council’s collective focus is on delivering exceptional service that achieves our vision and meets community expectations.

A diverse, dynamic community where we all share a sustainable, safe, attractive environment and a thriving economy. The City of Kingston is south-east of Melbourne and is approximately 20km from Melbourne's CBD. We employ over 1,450 people in a diverse range of roles including engineering, customer service, administration, finance, family, youth and children's services, sport and recreation, health, parks and gardens, planning, arts, and management. 

The Advocacy Lead will use their political acumen and networks to effectively lead the development, implementation, and review of Council’s advocacy priorities to influence decision making and attract Government and Stakeholder investment in infrastructure, facilities and services that will support Council’s vision for the Kingston community.

The role

We are seeking an Advocacy Lead to help drive our advocacy agenda and build organisational advocacy capacity. Reporting to the Advocacy, Communications & Engagement Manager, your role is to:

• Build strong relationships with key external stakeholders including MPs, electorate officers and government departments to advance advocacy priorities
• Develop and implement Council’s Advocacy Strategy to deliver a strategic approach to advocacy efforts
• Provide leadership, guidance, and support across the organisation to build internal capacity
• Develop and deliver advocacy campaigns to achieve funding and policy outcomes.

About you

We are looking for someone with:

• Demonstrated experience developing and delivering advocacy campaigns
• Strong understanding of political environment, with well-developed networks
• Tertiary education (or extensive experience) in government relations, communications, public policy, or relevant discipline.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, while demonstrating strong planning, time management and attention to detail to successfully manage concurrent projects. 

What we can offer

This is a full-time permanent position. 

As an employee of the City of Kingston you will be part of an inclusive culture and have access to ongoing professional development and a range of employee benefits designed to promote a positive work/life balance including flexible working arrangements, wellbeing initiatives, discounted gym membership, social club events, paid parental leave, salary packaging, study/development assistance, employee assistance program (EAP) and discounted health insurance.  Full time employees also have access to a planned day off every four weeks. 

How to Apply

Don’t meet every single requirement for this role? Studies have shown women and those of underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for roles unless they meet every criterion. At Kingston City Council, we recognise that different experiences make for great community outcomes.

If you are excited about this role, but your experience doesn’t perfectly align to the criteria we encourage you to click the Apply Now button now and submit your application.

If you require further information after reviewing the position description available to download below, please contact Acting Advocacy, Communications & Engagement Manager Michelle Devanny on 0401 007 622.

Kingston Council will welcome applications from everyone including candidates from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences such as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, Women, those identifies as part of LGBTIQA+ communities, culturally and linguistically diverse persons and persons with a disability.

To be considered for the role all applications must be submitted via our Careers recruitment portal.

A position description is attached.