The CFMEU Construction & General Division represents more than 80,000 construction workers across Australia. We fight for safe worksites, strong wages and conditions, and a fair future for working people. The Union is currently under Administration and is delivering a significant national reform program focused on restoring integrity, transparency and democratic control to members.

We are seeking a senior and highly trusted Senior Adviser - Public Affairs & Communications to join the Office of the Administrator. This role sits at the centre of the Administration and will play a critical role in protecting and rebuilding the Union’s reputation during a period of significant change.

Working closely with the Chief of Staff and senior leadership, the successful candidate will drive proactive and reactive communications, oversee media and stakeholder engagement, and ensure a consistent, disciplined narrative across all channels. This is a high-profile and high-stakes role requiring sound judgement, political and organisational acuity, and the ability to operate in a complex and fast-moving environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing strategic advice to the Administrator and Chief of Staff on public positioning, messaging and reputational risk
• Shaping the overarching narrative and communications approach supporting the Administration’s rebuild
• Overseeing national media strategy, including proactive media engagement, reactive responses, and message discipline across all external communications
• Supporting senior engagement with government, regulators, industry bodies through coordinated public affairs strategies
• Leading issues management and high-stakes reputational responses at the national level
• Working closely with the National Office Head of Media and Communications to ensure alignment between strategic direction and execution
• Advising on stakeholder mapping, engagement strategies and external influence across key audiences
• Monitoring the external environment and emerging risks to inform proactive positioning
• Managing highly sensitive matters with discretion and sound judgement

About you

You will bring 8–12 years’ experience in a senior public affairs, strategic communications or political advisory role, ideally within government, the union movement, or a similarly complex and high-profile environment.

You will have demonstrated capability in at least two of the following areas: public affairs and stakeholder strategy; political or media advisory; reputational and issues management; or public policy. Experience operating in complex governance environments is essential.

You are a strategic thinker with strong political judgement, capable of influencing at the most senior levels and navigating sensitive, high-pressure situations. You bring exceptional written and verbal communication skills, alongside the ability to provide clear, concise and trusted advice.

This is a senior appointment, operating with a high degree of autonomy and trust. Interstate travel and out-of-hours work will be required. If you are motivated by reform, integrity and the future strength of the union movement — and are capable of operating at the highest levels — we encourage you to apply.

Please submit your application to Camille Gray Young via the "Apply Now" button.