Make a Difference in Your Community
Are you a skilled communicator with a passion for public service? Horsham Rural City Council is seeking a dynamic and experienced
Senior Media and Communications Officer
to lead our strategic communications and media engagement. This is a unique opportunity to help shape how Council connects with our community, stakeholders, and the broader public.
This position is adaptable to applicants at different stages of their career and, dependent on level of qualification, is available as either a Band 6 (some relevant experience) or Band 7 (more extensive experience) role. Please refer to the relevant position description in the attached document for further details of the role and the associated requirements:
* Band 6 (starting $91,303 per annum) or
* Band 7 (starting $102,398 per annum)
About the Role
Reporting to the Coordinator Community Relations & Advocacy, you will be responsible for developing and delivering high-impact communication strategies that support Council's priorities, services, and initiatives. You'll manage media relations, oversee digital and social media content, and provide expert advice on communication matters across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
* Play a key role in supporting the development and implementation of Council's media and communications strategy.
* Oversee proactive and reactive media engagement, including media releases, interviews, and public statements.
* Oversee Council's digital presence, including website content, social media platforms, and e-newsletters.
* Support internal communications to ensure staff are informed and engaged.
* Provide strategic advice and support to senior leaders and elected officials.
* Monitor media coverage and community sentiment, and prepare reports and insights.
* Coordinate communication during emergency events and critical incidents.
About You
* Tertiary qualifications in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or a related field.
* Extensive experience in media and communications, preferably within government or public sector.
* Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills, with a strong understanding of tone and audience.
* Proven ability to manage complex projects and deliver under pressure.
* Strong stakeholder engagement and interpersonal skills.
* Knowledge of local government operations and community engagement principles is highly desirable.
Why Join Us?
* Be part of a values-driven organisation committed to serving the community.
* Work in a supportive and collaborative team environment.
* Enjoy flexible working arrangements and professional development opportunities.
* Make a meaningful impact through your work.
How to Apply
To download the PD, and to apply for this job go to:
& enter ref code:
Please submit the following documents via our online recruitment portal (link below):
* A current resume.
* A cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the position description.
For further information about the role or the application process, please contact
About Us
We are a local government employer delivering a broad range of community and human service programs to residents in our region. This includes services for children and families, youth, access and inclusion, cultural development, and waste management. We also manage many community assets like our town hall, recreational and open spaces, roads and road safety, as well as support for our region before, during and after emergencies…… so you can see we play a vital role in our community
In everything we do, we strive to make a real difference to the lives of the people and communities we serve. We share a common goal to develop the municipality through strong leadership, vision, good governance, responsive services and quality infrastructure, whilst enhancing our liveability and natural environment.
At HRCC, we understand that you spend a lot of time at work so we focus on making your time with us as enjoyable and rewarding as we possibly can. We offer a range of employee benefits like flexible working arrangements, generous leave options and ongoing professional development. If you'd like some more information about us, where we are located and attractions in our region, please check out our careers page here.
Applications close 22 September 2025