ABOUT UNIVERSITIES AUSTRALIA

Universities Australia (UA) is the voice of Australia’s universities. We work hard to ensure Australia has a strong higher education and research sector to support the nation’s future.

We champion the role universities play in generating vast social, economic and cultural value for the nation and the rest of the world. We advocate for higher education policy settings that are in the national interest.

On behalf of our 39 member universities, we actively collaborate with policy makers and political leaders at all levels of government, engage directly with the community and work closely with international partners to help support Australia’s world class university system.

THE TEAM

The Strategic Communications and Engagement team, led by the Executive Director, is responsible for devising and implementing UA’s communication strategies, advocacy campaigns and government relations.

The team is responsible for all facets of communications delivery including media relations, government relations, speech writing, brand management, content development, digital strategy and campaign management.

The team also builds and nurtures relationships with key stakeholders, including government bodies, parliamentarians, industry partners and our members.

THE ROLE

The Communications Officer will help develop and deliver UA’s communication strategies and advocacy campaigns.

The successful candidate will be a team player who engages positively with key internal and external stakeholders to ensure a consistent and collaborative approach to the development of UA’s communications, media relations, brand management, advertising campaigns, speeches, publications, events, social media and website.

REPORTS TO: Executive Director, Strategic Communications and Engagement

DIRECT REPORTS: None

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with the coordination and implementation of communication plans for key projects.
• Assist with drafting high quality communication products such as speeches, media releases and social media content.
• Craft social media plans and posts and monitor social media platforms.
• Assist with the maintenance of the website.
• Manage media and stakeholder databases and distribution lists.
• Help with the production and distribution of media and communication products such as media releases, talking points, transcripts and member updates.
• Assist with researching and writing media briefs.
• Assist with managing media enquiries.
• Assist with research tasks to inform government relations, communication and media strategies.
• Assist with the management of the team inbox.
• Collate team analytics and help produce media and board reports.
• Proactively seek out opportunities to advocate UA’s policies via traditional, social and online media.
• Assist with the management of contracts with suppliers such as creative agencies, media buyers, media monitors etc.
• Other duties as directed.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Excellent communicator with strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent written communication skills as well as attention to detail.
• Have some experience in speech writing, media relations, campaigns, digital media and/or graphic design.
• Ideally have tertiary qualifications in communication.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

This role is an on-site role.

This is a full-time permanent, on-going position, based in Canberra with competitive salary packages offered based on qualifications and experience. As a not-for-profit organisation we can offer salary sacrificing options.

Applicants should lodge a cover letter detailing their suitability for the role and current CV.

If you meet the above requirements for this role please apply today!