APS 4, APS 5, APS 6 & EL 1 classification levels
- locations: Brisbane, Canberra & Melbourne
- temporary and permanent positions; full-time or part-time hours; flexible working arrangements
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is looking to fill the roles of **Media Managers** (EL1 and APS 6) and **Media Officers** (APS 5 and APS 4) in our Census Communication team, part of the Census Field Operations Branch, to support delivery of the 2026 Census Communication approach, including a government advertising campaign to reach, engage and motivate the public to participate in the next Census.
Roles may also become available in the Media and Social Media Section within the Strategic Engagement and Performance Branch.
**About the roles**
Media Managers and Media Officers will contribute to the ABS purpose by enhancing the way ABS interacts with journalists and media stakeholders through the development of high quality and effective media strategies, messages and content. They ensure ABS media relations is relevant and builds trust. They ensure media engagement is timely and effective to support journalist's ability to do their job and increase their understanding of Census.
Responsibilities of Media Managers and Media Officers may include:
- leading and collaborating on the delivery of media and spokesperson strategies
- developing and implementing media materials and events such as: media releases, statements, talking points, press conference or media briefings, backgrounders, in liaison with the minister's office
- managing a range of external stakeholders, particularly journalists and vendors, to manage queries, response timeframes, interview requests and briefings about the 2026 Census and ABS work programs
- identifying proactive media opportunities and managing risks to maintain and promote the value of the Census and ABS data, participation and available Census job opportunities
- writing and editing content for use across channels, including fact checking, clearance processes and stakeholder outreach
- coordinating access to transcripts, media clips, media metrics and other media monitoring services, including briefing executives and staff
- at EL 1 and APS 6 level - leading and managing staff and undertaking more complex tasks.
- Note:_ it's expected there may be a need for occasional work outside of core business hours and interstate travel during the operational phase of the 2026 Census. Appropriate allowances (e.g. overtime, travel, etc) will be paid.
**What we are looking for (selection criteria)**
- strong written and oral communication skills
- demonstrated experience working in a media management role, including providing strategic advice to senior executives
- demonstrated experience in developing media strategies and content for journalists (e.g. media releases, talking points, backgrounders)
- excellent time management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage complex media matters and competing priorities under tight deadlines
- ability to build and sustain positive relationships with team members, and internal and external stakeholders.
For APS 6 and EL 1 positions:
- experience supervising staff and supporting staff development
- completion of a media focused degree or diploma such as journalism, digital media, public relations, strategic communication or marketing.
Also highly desirable:
- experience delivering media training and media events in government campaigns.
**How to apply**
Please read the attached