Are you a strategic communicator with a passion for public affairs and media engagement? Waverley Council is seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Media Adviser to lead the development and delivery of best practice media strategies that elevate our profile and promote the important work we do for our community

What’s on offer?

• Temporary Full Time
• Salary: $108,010.63 - $124,212.21 plus 12 % Superannuation
• A values driven culture focused on community, innovation, and collaboration
• A supportive and inclusive team
• Agile working opportunities
• Office Based in Bondi Junction with 5-minute walk from the train station
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Wellness programs: flu shots, skin checks, annual wellbeing fair
• Access to Fitness Passport – discounted gym memberships

About the Role

As the Senior Media Advisor, you will play a key role in enhancing public awareness and understanding of Council’s initiatives, services, and decisions. You will provide expert media advice and tactical communications support to Mayor, Councillors, Executive Team, and Council staff. This is a high-impact role that requires a proactive approach, excellent judgement, and deep understanding of media relations in community-focused environment.

What you’ll do?

• Develop and implement strategic and tactical media plans that align with Council priorities
• Prepare high-quality media materials, including media releases, speeches, and briefing notes
• Provide timely and sound media advice to the Mayor, elected representatives, and senior staff.
• Manage media inquiries and build strong relationships with journalists and key media outlets.
• Monitor media coverage and provide analysis to inform communications strategies
• Support crisis communications responses as needed

What you’ll bring?

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Tertiary qualifications in journalism, public relations, marketing, communications or related fields and minimum 7 years’ experience.
• Strong news sense and proven ability to work with media outlets and networks to handle media inquiries and write and issue media responses and press releases.
• Experience in researching and drafting high quality speeches for a range of events and audiences.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing media strategies and in media related issues management.
• Excellent English skills and the ability to apply these skills to writing for varied audiences and purposes e.g. editorials, publications, social media.
• Proven ability to work well with elected officials or other senior officials or officers, providing them with effective support.
• Strong research and analytical skills complemented by creative thinking, assessing and dealing with issues using sound judgment and sensitivity.
• Highly developed networking and problem-solving skills underpinned by a strong appreciation of political and consultative environments.
• Self-managed and independent with a demonstrated ability to work to competing deadlines

Please refer to the position description for detailed information on the position and required skills and experience. For more information, contact Shannon Molloy, Manager, Communication and Engagement, [email protected]

Ready to apply!

If you’re a dynamic communicator with a passion for public storytelling and community impact, we’d love to hear from you!

To be considered for this position, please answer the online application questions and include the following documents:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this position (optional)
• Your resume detailing your career history relevant for this position

Please note that pre-employment checks are part of the recruitment process.

Waverley Council is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all candidates. We encourage applications from people from diverse groups, including, but not limited to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people; people from culturally diverse backgrounds; young people; older workers; people with disabilities; LGBTQIA+; and other minority groups. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our People and Culture team at [email protected]

We fully support the aims and objectives of the NSW Officer of Children's Guardian and Child Protection legislation. We will implement necessary practices to ensure a safe and supported Council environment for children and young people. All staff, volunteers and contractor’s welcome child safe and child friendly practices

Applications close: 10 September 2025 at 11:59 PM