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Experienced journalist, media officer or communications professional looking to shift into a purpose-driven role where your media expertise and storytelling skills can shape public perception of UC and elevate our academics voices.
UC Level 7, Salary Range $100,838 pa - $109,243 pa plus 17% Super
Full-time, fixed term until Nov 2026 (Maternity Cover)
About us:
The University of Canberra’s vision is “Together we work to empower, connect and share knowledge with our people, cultures and places”. UC is embedded in the lCanberra community, and our aim is to challenge the status quo through the pursuit of excellence in teaching, learning and research. The University of Canberra has been ranked in the top ten universities in the world for reducing inequalities (THE Impact Rankings 2025).
About the role:
If you’re an experienced journalist or media officer looking to make a shift into a purpose-driven role within the University’s central Media and Communications unit, where your relevant media expertise and storytelling skills will help shape public perception of UC and elevate our academics voices — then this is your opportunity.
At the University of Canberra, we’re seeking a seasoned Media Officer to support strategic media engagement, coordinate high-profile media interviews, and craft compelling content that reflects the impact of our leadership, education, research and community initiatives.
This role is perfect for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, understands the media landscape, and can apply their skills in a values-led institution committed to equity, innovation, and inclusion.
Key responsibilities:
Reporting to the Associate Director, Media and Communications you will contribute to the delivery of the University’s media engagement activities.
Support media engagement across faculties and business units, and tailor approaches to suit diverse audiences.
Apply your writing skills to the development of media releases, news articles, media alerts, and media pitches.
Prepare talking points and media briefings for university executives ahead of media engagement.
Monitor and respond to all incoming media inquiries via the dedicated UC Media mobile phone and email inbox.
Build and maintain respectful relationships with local and national media.
Identify and support proactive media opportunities across the University.
Monitor and analyse the University’s media coverage and produce media engagement reports.
Collaborate with the UC Media and Communications team on strategic communications activities.
Contribute to university-wide media response strategies.
About you:
You’re a media professional with a strong news sense, excellent writing skills, and a knack for building relationships. You’re ready to move out of the newsroom, agency or corporate environment and apply your expertise in a strategic, mission-driven Higher Education setting.
You’ll bring:
Expertise as a journalist, media officer, or communications specialist.
Proven ability to write and pitch stories to the media.
Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and navigating complex issues.
Ability to manage competing priorities and respond to emerging media requests.
Familiarity with media monitoring tools and reporting metrics.
A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and a commitment to respectful communication.
Offerings/ Benefits/ Culture:
The University offers excellent conditions and benefits such as:
Flexible working arrangements and Family-friendly policies.
On campus gym, medical services, cafes, post office, supermarket and childcare facilities.
Professional development offerings (study assistance, corporate programs and discounts).
Innovative work environment with a diverse and inclusive culture.
Access to Employee Assistance Program and a corporate private Health Plan (Bupa).
University of Canberra is a values based organisation and sets a goal to be the national sector leader in equity, diversity, inclusion and access via Connected – A Decadal Strategy 2023-2032 . UC encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Eligibility:
Applicants who wish to apply for this position should have valid working rights at the time of submission.
The University of Canberra is committed to the safety of vulnerable and young people. As such, successful applicants will be required to have a current ACT working with vulnerable people registration. For further details on how to apply please click https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au
How to apply:
Please submit your Resume along with a cover letter that outlines:
The skills and experience you bring to this opportunity.
Your interest in the role and how it aligns with your career goals.
No other documentation is required at this stage. We encourage you to take the time to align your resume with the Position Description, highlighting how your background and achievements relate directly to the responsibilities and requirements of the Media Officer role.
For job specific information: Andy Visser, Associate Director, Media & Communications on 02 6201 2614 or email Andy.Visser@canberra.edu.au
For recruitment and application questions: please contact the Talent Solutions team on 02 6206 3867 or email uctalent@canberra.edu.au . If you would like to request a reasonable adjustment to the selection process, please feel free to contact us.
Closing date: 11.55pm, Sunday 7 September 2025
