10850 Communications Specialist
Job No:
CHR10370
Location:
Emerald
Work Type: Contract
Remuneration: Circa $200k inclusive of superannuation and motor vehicle with private use
Location: Emerald
Directorate: Corporate Services
Central Highlands Regional Council is looking for a dynamic Communications Specialist with experience and expertise in local government to lead the charge in delivering strategic, engaging, and impactful communications that make a real difference.
This is your opportunity to shape the voice of a progressive council. You’ll craft compelling messages, manage media relations, and create content that resonates across digital, social, and traditional platforms. From strategic campaigns to crisis communications, you’ll ensure our messaging is clear, timely, and influential.
In this exciting role you will:
- Develop and implement innovative communication strategies aligned with council objectives.
- Build strong relationships with media, community groups, and stakeholders.
- Create engaging content for websites, social media, newsletters, and speeches.
- Manage media inquiries, draft press releases, and coordinate interviews.
- Lead crisis communication efforts and provide rapid, accurate responses.
- Monitor and enhance council’s digital presence using analytics and creative tools.
To be considered for this position:
- Tertiary qualification in Communications, PR, Journalism, or related field (or significant experience).
- 10+ years experience in a similar role within local government environment
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with political acumen.
- Expertise in media relations and content creation across multiple channels.
- Proficiency in digital tools (WordPress, Canva, Adobe Suite) and social media management.
- Ability to thrive under pressure and manage competing priorities.
Why Join Us?
- Be the voice behind a council committed to innovation and community engagement.
- Work on diverse projects that influence regional development.
- Enjoy a collaborative environment that values creativity and strategic thinking.
Working for Central Highlands Regional Council has its benefits.
We are a progressive region, committed in creating opportunities for all. We welcome forward thinking individuals who are focused on continuous improvement, a sustainable future and understand the valuable role we play in investing in our regional community.
Benefits Include:
- A generous superannuation scheme
- 5 weeks annual leave with 17.5% leave loading
- Annual uniform allocation
- Payroll deductions and salary sacrifice options
- Wages paid fortnightly
- Employee Assistance Program
To apply for this position:
As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.
Please download and review the position description.
To be considered for this position, please include the following documents:
- A cover letter outlining your motivation for applying for this position and addressing the key selection criteria
- Your resume detailing your career history relevant for this position
Applicants who are progressed to the next stage of the recruitment process will be invited to participate in a shortlisting process.
Eligibility & Pre-employment Checks
To be appointed to a permanent position, you must be an Australian citizen, or have permanent residency status, or hold a visa permitting you to work in Australia permanently. If you have a visa permitting you to work temporarily in Australia, you may be appointed to a position on a temporary basis, providing the work complies with the conditions of your visa.
The pre-employment checks relevant to this position include:
- Right to Work in Australia
- Criminal History Check
- Medical Assessment
- Reference and qualification checks
For a confidential discussion, please contact a member of the Recruitment Team on 1300 242 686 during business hours or register your application by submitting your cover letter and resume.
Applications close: 8am, Monday 12th January 2026.
