Director Communications and Engagement

Join to apply for the Director Communications and Engagement role at Office of the Inspector-General of Aged Care.

Our vision is an aged care system in Australia where every person receives kind, compassionate, high-quality care that promotes their rights, identity and independence. The Office of the Inspector-General of Aged Care (OIGAC) is a non-corporate Commonwealth entity established in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. Our purpose is to ensure integrity and accountability of the aged care system through independent, informed oversight.

We use robust data and evidence to oversee the system, drawing on lived experience as a critical informant. Beyond monitoring, reviewing and reporting, we seek innovative ways to drive impact and inspire change. We are wholly independent, free from influence and uphold the integrity needed to hold others accountable. Our recommendations are practical and actionable and focus where the most meaningful, positive change in aged care can be achieved.

The Director, Communications and Engagement is an influential position responsible for raising awareness and steering the public conversation about aged care in a changing media landscape, ensuring that our communication and engagement efforts align with strategic objectives.

Reporting to the Inspector-General of Aged Care, the Director, Communications and Engagement is responsible for:

• Strategic communication and forging the profile of OIGAC: Create and implement communication strategies to ensure that our reports, reviews and related activities have maximal impact for target audiences. This includes crafting messages for diverse audiences, both internal and external, to enhance awareness of the agency's work and cementing our profile in the aged care oversight landscape.
• Media and public/stakeholder engagement: Overseeing media and stakeholder engagement, leading strategic media content and proactive engagement efforts, reflecting diverse voices while educating the public.
• Parliamentary and Ministerial communications: Overseeing Parliamentary responses and ministerial correspondence.
• Content creation: Producing content such as newsletters, social media updates and marketing materials, ensuring alignment with our voice and stakeholders.
• Internal communications: Managing internal communications to keep staff informed and engaged.
• Crisis communication: Advising on public relations issues during crises and developing stakeholder communication strategies.
• Leadership: Leading and developing a team of communications professionals.

This ideal candidate is values-driven and motivated to contribute meaningfully to public discourse. As a small agency, we may not offer extensive career progression, but we provide a unique environment for those passionate about the subject matter and committed to making a tangible impact.

They will undertake work with a high level of complexity, using significant judgement in internal and external communications. The role provides sound advice on communication, media and stakeholder engagement strategy and activities, with a focus on leadership.

To be successful, you must thrive under pressure in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple evolving priorities, with a commitment to improving aged care.

Our ideal Director, Communications and Engagement will have:

• Tertiary qualifications in media and communications or relevant experience in strategic communications.
• Experience in leading and managing teams and building capability for high performance.
• Experience in building and maintaining partnerships through complex or sensitive issues to achieve outcomes.
• Experience in researching and analytically summarising complex information to provide high-level advice, reports and recommendations.
• Ability to contribute to strategic planning by developing operational strategies in a high-pressure environment.

Highly desirable

An understanding of, or willingness to acquire, a broad understanding of the Commonwealth-funded aged care system.

The OIGAC is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where every employee can bring their authentic self to work. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, mature age individuals, and people with disability.

The Office is committed to health, safety and wellbeing. Some workers may be exposed to potentially distressing material; consider personal circumstances and wellbeing when applying. If you have concerns, speak to the contact officer before submitting your application.

• Applicants must be Australian citizens.
• Pre-employment checks include identity checks, police check, Working with Children and Vulnerable People checks where required, medical declaration and relevant qualifications.

The Recruitability scheme supports increased representation of people with disability in the APS. If you apply under RecruitAbility, you may be invited to participate in further assessment if you meet minimum requirements. Merit remains the basis for engagement and promotion.

For more information visit

Email your application to by no later than 11.30pm (AEST) on SUNDAY 14 SEPTEMBER. Your application must include:

• OIGAC Job application cover sheet
• Your current resume (maximum 3 pages) outlining experience and qualifications
• Your pitch (maximum 750 words) referencing the role and ideal candidate
• Details for 2 referees, including your current supervisor

Prior to preparing your response, review the Work Level Standards relevant to the classification and position you are applying for.