Communication Manager (Maternity Leave Cover)

Location: Canberra, ACT (hybrid or remote options available for the right candidate)
Status: Full-time 38 hours per week

Duration: Contract approximately 8 months

Possibility of extension: Potential for extension or ongoing part-time role in future by negotiation

Salary: $120-$125k plus superannuation

RSPCA Australia is Australia’s leading animal welfare organisation and one of the nation’s most recognised and trusted organisations. We exist for animals to live better lives. With a rich history spanning over more than 150 years, the RSPCA continues to be at the forefront of animal care and protection, advocacy and education, across the nation. RSPCA Australia, the federation’s national body, is a leading source of animal welfare science, and works with governments and industries to progress animal welfare across a range of issues.

About the Role

Join RSPCA Australia in our mission to improve the lives of animals across the country. We're seeking a strategic and driven Communication Manager to lead our national communications and efforts, shaping public discourse on animal welfare and delivering high-impact campaigns that make a real difference.

As Communication Manager, you’ll lead projects that amplify the RSPCA’s, provide trusted communications advice, and play a key role in advocacy, campaigns, corporate communications, media and internal engagement. Reporting to the Communication and Campaigns Lead, you’ll manage both proactive and reactive communications while leading a small team and supporting the wider communications team, working to make animals’ lives better.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and deliver high-quality communications projects across the organisation.

Provide strategic communications advice and support to RSPCA Australia’s executive and staff.

Drive the planning, content development and delivery of communications for national advocacy, campaigns, marketing, events and the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme.

Oversee media engagement—proactively shaping narratives and responding strategically to emerging issues.

Write, edit and review a wide range of content, ensuring alignment with brand, voice and purpose.

Strengthen internal communications within RSPCA Australia and among state-based member Societies.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

An experienced communications professional with a flair for strategic thinking.

A natural storyteller who can translate complex issues into compelling content across multiple platforms.

Comfortable working in fast-paced environments and managing media during sensitive or high-profile issues.

A proven leader and experienced manager with a track record of empowering teams for greater performance and productivity, particularly multi-disciplinary communications teams.

Collaborative, diplomatic and confident in stakeholder engagement.

Why Join Us?

Join a values-driven team that’s supportive, purpose-led and passionate.

Highly flexible work options and beneficial salary packaging.

Ready to make a difference?
Apply now with your CV and a cover letter outlining why you're the right fit for the role. Applications must be submitted to [email protected] with “Communications Manager” in the subject line

If you have any specific questions, please send an email to Jane Speechley at [email protected]

For further information regarding RSPCA Australia, go to www.rspca.org.au

Applications will be assessed as they are received, and the job closed accordingly at any time - so if you’re interested in this role, please don’t delay and do apply as soon as possible.