Job description
The office of Senator Payman is seeking applications for a full-time, ongoing Communications and Media Officer, based in either the electorate office in Perth, or the Senate office in Canberra.
Reporting to the Chief-of-Staff, this dynamic and fast-paced role is suited to someone with excellent writing skills, sound political judgment, and a passion for using communications to create impact. Regular interstate travel and weekend work will be a requirement of this role.
You'll be the go-to person for media engagement; crafting clear, compelling messages, managing reactive media, and building strong relationships with journalists and stakeholders. You'll also manage the Senator's social media channels, digital platforms and draft EDMs to get the Senator's message of transparency, justice and fairness out to the people of Western Australia.
The key duties of the position are, but are not limited to:
* Act as the first point of contact for media queries and advise on reactive media responses.
* Take ownership of the Senator's social media channels, update content and moderate as required.
* Coordinate interviews, press conferences, and brief the Senator ahead of any media appearances.
* Write speeches, opinion pieces, newsletters, and social media content aligned with the Senator's priorities.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, media outlets, and key external stakeholders.
* Monitor and analyse communications trends to identify opportunities and refine engagement strategies.
* Monitor analytics to refine communications approaches and strengthen impact.
* Tailor messaging for diverse audiences, with a focus on WA constituents.
* Support the wider team with events, constituent communication, and campaign activities.
* Promote, support and maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace culture.
* Regular local and interstate travel may be required for this role, with irregular work hours, particularly during parliamentary sitting weeks.
* Other duties as required to support the Senator and the effective operation of the Senate and Electorate Office.
The ideal applicant should possess the following skills, qualifications, and experience:
* Demonstrated experience in media, communications, or public relations, ideally in a political, government, or advocacy context.
* Proven experience managing social media, digital campaigns, and online engagement.
* Experience in graphic design and multimedia, including digital photography, videography, and editing. Proficiency in Adobe Suite will be highly regarded.
* Experience in using a CRM.
* High level of discretion, professional integrity, political awareness and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives.
* Ability to think strategically and respond effectively in a fast-paced political environment.
* Strong relationship-building skills with media, stakeholders, and community leaders.
* Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
* Ability to take direction.
* A commitment to equity, justice, and respectful workplace culture.
Employment conditions:
The position is offered under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 and conditions are outlined in the Commonwealth Members of Parliament Staff Enterprise Agreement 2024-27 which include:
* A commencing salary between $76,910 and $89,793 will be negotiated depending on experience and relevant skills.
* An additional optional allowance of up to $30,187 will be payable in recognition of, and as compensation for, reasonable additional hours of work and travel requirements.
* Relocation assistance, studies assistance and paid study leave may also be available (subject to eligibility requirements).
* An employer superannuation contribution of 15.4% will be payable.
Applicants should note the following:
* An initial probationary period of three months will apply and may be subject to extension.
* The successful applicant may be required to undergo a National Police History Check.
* Staff may be subject to automatic cessation triggers in accordance with Section 14 of the MOP(S) Act.
* The successful applicant will be required to comply with their obligations under the Behaviour Codes and Standards.
For further information please contact the Chief-of-Staff, Ash Telford at: using the subject line: Communications and Media Officer - Perth / Canberra enquiry via EthicalJobs or phone the office on (08) 6245 3322.