Public Affairs Officer: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry ,(VN-0768390)

In this role you’ll help steer public-facing communications for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Day to day you’ll develop media strategies, respond to inquiries, write speeches and releases, and lead a small team to deliver high-quality communications across multiple programs and ministers’ offices. You’ll work across crisis and proactive campaigns, keeping stakeholders informed and protecting the department’s reputation.

Narrative

As a Public Affairs Officer, you’ll be part of the Strategy, Performance and Engagement Division, delivering strategic media and communications support for the department. You’ll help shape how the department communicates with industry, communities and government partners, ensuring timely, accurate and effective messaging across channels.

You’ll join a leadership cohort within the Media team, contributing to high-quality media work and supporting Ministers’ offices. It’s a role that values evidence-based communication, collaboration and a calm, adaptable approach to fast-moving government environments.

Duties (What You Will Do)

About You (Eligibility)

• Proven ability to design and deliver contemporary media strategies and activities.
• Experience leading a small team with diverse skills; ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Strong relationship-building and negotiation skills with stakeholders, including ministers’ offices and senior executives.
• Capability to drive performance in fast-paced government environments and to use evidence to inform approach.
• Excellent organisational skills; ability to prioritise multiple projects within deadlines.
• Experience negotiating to achieve effective communication outcomes.
• Baseline Vetting security clearance is mandatory.
• Extensive experience in journalism or a media team and relevant qualifications in journalism, communication or media.

Important Information for Applicants

This vacancy sits within the APS and RecruitAbility applies. For candidates considering opportunities like “jobs in australia for foreigners,” please note that eligibility for APS roles typically requires Australian citizenship or suitable rights to work in Australia, along with any security clearances required. The department notes that successful applicants may be required to work outside standard hours due to a 24/7 media cycle and crisis communications.

Direct Answer

Citizenship or visa status is not listed as an explicit requirement in the job data provided. The role requires Baseline Vetting security clearance, which implies candidates must meet security clearance standards. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, you should check with the Agency Recruitment Site or contact the listed recruitment contact to confirm your status and options.

Additional Information

Diversity & Inclusion

The vacancy states RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy; participation is encouraged for applicants with a disability who meet the minimum requirements.

RecruitAbility

Applicants may choose to participate in further assessment activity under the RecruitAbility scheme; more information is available via the APS guidance.

Future Merit Pools

The notice indicates eligibility for future merit pools and potential similar employment opportunities across APS agencies.

Call to Action