Communications Officer

BENEFITS

• Improve your take-home pay by using salary packaging options – up to $18,500 can be packaged every year (details via AccessPay)!
• Career development opportunities
• Leave loading of 17.5%
• Flexible working arrangements including a hybrid work arrangement.
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted health insurance and free flu shots each year

We’re looking for a professional Communications Officer with relevant experience who wants to join our team on a permanent, full-time basis, working 38 hours per week based in Fitzroy. 

SUMMARY ABOUT THE HIPPY PROGRAM

HIPPY (Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngster) is a free, two-year, home-based early childhood learning program that supports parents/carers of 3 and 4 year old children to be their child’s first teacher. 

HIPPY Australia through the National Office enables the delivery of HIPPY in 100 sites across Australia. HIPPY Australia holds a licence with HIPPY International and a significant grant agreement with the Federal Government. The role of the National Office includes supporting over 60 local partners, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), to deliver HIPPY with the level of fidelity required to ensure positive impacts and outcomes for children and families involved in the program. HIPPY Australia has a focus on quality, risk management, learning and development, data and evidence building and marketing and communication.

THE ROLE

The Communications Officer will develop, coordinate and implement communication to support HIPPY Australia’s work and significantly contribute to the reputation and profile of the program. 

Communications have a predominantly external focus with information being directed to 100 program providers delivering local HIPPY programs across Australia as well as Government organisations and relevant peak bodies.

Key Duties:

• Work with the Network Engagement Manager to develop, implement and maintain the communications strategy that will promote the work of the HIPPY Australia program and provide information to stakeholders, media and broader community.
• As part of the broader Network Engagement Strategy develop and implement an internal communication plan to ensure current and accurate information is available to staff and that staff are kept up to date with developments and changes as directed.
• Research and write original communication content including but not limited to manuals and publications, digital content and responses, media releases, newsletters and briefing papers in accordance with strategic goals.
• Undertake and/or manage editing, graphic design and publication of key internal and external HIPPY Australia documents including plans, guidelines, manuals, training, and promotional materials.
• Assist with measurement and evaluation of communications and community relations activities against strategic objectives.
• Participate /manage one-off projects effectively and within agreed timeframes

Salary will be in the range of $87,886.87 to $94, 565.36 per annum based on skills and experience plus superannuation.

ABOUT THE BROTHERHOOD OF ST LAURENCE

We are passionate about the work we do. We strive to create change that lasts for a more compassionate and just society – a society in which we can all fully participate in social, civic and economic life with the dignity and respect we all deserve.

The Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL) has a clear vision – an Australia free of poverty. For over 90 years, we have worked with policy makers and the community for systemic change that will prevent and alleviate poverty in Australia. We are made up of 1500+ employees and 1000+ volunteers to make a difference in our communities.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Passion for supporting the mission of BSL, and delivering excellence in your role, are just the start.

To be considered for the role and be successful in it, we’re looking for someone who has the following key skills and experiences:

• Relevant degree qualification in public relations, communication or relevant discipline and/or relevant work experience in those fields
• Demonstrated successful experience in developing and implementing stakeholder, community engagement and/or media plans and media relationships
• Highly developed writing and editing skills across traditional and digital media with the ability to develop information from different sources then write and edit for a range of products for different audiences to a high standard.
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills with the ability to establish and maintain relationships with BSL and HIPPY staff, HIPPY program providers, community members and partner organisations, other stakeholders and with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated experience developing and presenting information to a range of external audiences, and ability to represent the organisation in external meetings.
• Experience and knowledge in communication production including simple English translation, visual enhancements, culturally appropriate and diverse for a range of audiences

CULTURE

BSL employees enjoy a range of flexible work options and other attractive benefits. Recognising that there is no ‘one size fits all’ pattern of work–life balance, the organisation endeavours to provide options to suit the needs of all staff.

APPLY NOW

If you have any questions about the role, or want more clarification, please contact Rachael Polic (rachael.polic@bsl.org.au) for a confidential discussion.

To view the Position Description to address the Key Selection Criteria, please click here.

Applications close: Friday, 16th August 2024 at 11.55 pm.

We are an EEO and understand the importance of diversity and inclusion. We recognise that everyone has the right to an equitable, safe and productive environment and to be treated with dignity and respect.  We welcome applications from all people regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, cultural background, disability or sexual orientation. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.

Successful applicants will be subject to pre-employment checks including criminal history and working with children. Recruitment decisions are based on the key inherent needs and requirements of each role, and candidates are selected based on their unique strengths and characteristics.  Applicants must have proof of working rights in Australia.

#S-DNI