We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Media Officer to join our communications team in the health sector. This role is ideally suited to an experienced communications professional with a background in media relations and a strong understanding of the federal government landscape. The successful candidate will work under limited direction to manage complex and sensitive media issues, develop strategic media plans, and enhance the public profile and reputation of the organisation across key stakeholder groups.
The Senior Media Officer will have a strong news sense and will work proactively and reactively to support public communications around health programs, policy, and services. You will be confident working with journalists, creating compelling content, and translating complex information into clear, accessible language for diverse audiences.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement media strategies that align with organisational objectives and public health priorities
Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets and journalists
Draft and edit high-quality media materials including media releases, talking points, backgrounders and opinion pieces
Coordinate proactive media opportunities and deliver compelling media pitches
Respond to media enquiries efficiently and accurately, including out-of-hours support on a rotational basis
Collaborate with internal subject matter experts to package media stories across print, digital, radio and broadcast channels
Monitor media coverage and assess potential risks to the organisation’s reputation
Provide media advice to senior executives and support the development of executive communications
Liaise with Ministerial offices and contribute to cross-agency communications initiatives
Analyse communication metrics to evaluate impact and inform continuous improvement
Key Skills and Capabilities
Strong writing and editing skills, adaptable to a variety of audiences and channels
Excellent news judgement and understanding of the media landscape
Demonstrated experience in proactive and reactive media management
Ability to translate technical or policy-heavy content into plain English
Skilled in managing competing priorities and delivering under pressure
High-level interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills
Confidence and experience in dealing with the media on sensitive or high-profile issues
Ability to work independently, while contributing to a collaborative team environment
Sound judgement and critical thinking, particularly in high-stakes or risk-sensitive scenarios
Familiarity with media monitoring and reporting tools
Desirable Criteria
Experience in or knowledge of the Australian Public Service (APS) or federal government communications environment
Established media contacts within the health or public affairs sectors
Previous experience working in the healthcare industry or public health communications
Understanding of government policy development and program delivery
Work Environment
Open-plan or flexible office setting
Hybrid working arrangements available
Use of standard business tools including Microsoft Office and media monitoring software
Occasional out-of-hours availability for urgent media responses
At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all. We actively encourage applications from any background.
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