This is a rare opportunity to secure an ongoing VPS5 position in DTF's Strategic Communications team. Reporting to the Manager, Media and Communications, this is a senior role that requires a strong understanding of media and public affairs, the ability to develop and embed a strategic narrative, and a proven ability to develop professional working relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders. This is an ideal role for a ‘hands on' media and communications specialist. In this role you will distil complex ideas and persuade effectively, exercise good judgement based on experience, and collaborate across the department and the broader Victorian Government to manage issues. You will have at least ten years' experience working in diverse media and communications teams, demonstrated experience in issues management and proactive media relations, and a proven ability to develop strong, professional working relationships at all levels. Key accountabilities Support the development and delivery of strategic communications and media relations strategies, including for the State Budget. Provide expert advice to departmental executives and ministerial office staff on Government initiatives, issues management, stakeholder engagement and strategic priorities. Ensure communications and media activities are effectively planned, managed, implemented and evaluated. Support Ministerial events. Build effective relationships with stakeholders, providing proactive support and responsive solutions to requests. Contribute to business planning, policy and goal setting for the Strategic Communications Group. About the Department The Department of Treasury and Finance seeks to improve the lives and prosperity of Victorians. We do this by constantly growing our influence, wellbeing, leadership and expertise. We are the indispensable partner inside and outside of government on economic, financial, infrastructure, industrial relations and commercial policy. Strategic Communications & Executive Services The Strategic Communications team provides expert communications services and issues management advice to support Ministers as well as DTF projects and programs, including developing communication strategies, supporting stakeholder engagement, managing media relations, digital channels, internal communications, and coordinating campaigns, events and production services. Key Selection Criteria Demonstrated ability to deal with communications, media and stakeholder engagement concepts and high-level complexity comfortably, and use analytical and conceptual skills to effectively identify and manage reputational risks and issues, solve problems and implement solutions. Excellent technical corporate communication skills, including the ability to write clearly, concisely and appropriately for specific audience groups effectively across a range of mediums. Proven experience in providing influential communication advice and delivering quality communication products and services that support the successful delivery of organisational programs or activities. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain relationships with people at all levels within and external to the department, particularly senior executives and ministerial office staff, and provide expert strategic communication and media relations advice. Proven ability to simultaneously coordinate several activities in an unpredictable environment and manage tight deadlines with exceptional attention to detail. Experience and qualifications Experience in managing communication projects and events involving tight timeframes and complex issues. Understanding of the VPS communication environment and current corporate communication issues and trends highly regarded. Tertiary qualification in journalism, communications, or related field, desirable. About our culture We aim to be a model employer providing an inclusive workplace that is understanding and respectful of differences such as gender, identity, race, disability or age. In addition, we are committed to supporting Aboriginal pathways between education and employment. The Department strives to create an environment that supports a flexible and adaptive workforce. All requests for flexible working arrangements will be considered in line with operational requirements. Further Information For more information about the position and key selection criteria, please refer to the position description. If you have specific questions regarding the role, please contact the Manager, Media & Communications. How to apply To apply, select the ‘Apply Now' button and provide a copy of your resume and cover letter summarising your skills and relevant experience. Applications close at midnight, 4 August, 2025. If you require a copy of this advertisement in an accessible format, please contact the Recruitment team .