Federal Politics and APS Reporter

The Canberra Times is seeking a smart and tenacious reporter to join its Parliament House bureau to cover both federal politics and the Australian Public Service (APS).

This is a rare opportunity to join the engine room of our national coverage. The Canberra Times prides itself on being the trusted voice of reporting on the public service, and we are looking for a journalist who can deliver exclusive, insightful reporting on the workforce that underpins our democracy. Your reporting will break news that matters to the nation's capital and a wide audience across the ACM network - Australia's largest independent media organisation.

What You'll Be Doing

As a key member of our bureau, you will be responsible for delivering agenda-setting journalism that holds our government and its institutions to account.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Breaking news: Consistently break exclusive stories across both the highly competitive federal politics round and the Australian Public Service.
• In-depth public service reporting: Investigate and report on the policies, people, and performance of the APS, from major departmental decisions to critical workforce issues.
• Setting the agenda: Develop and pitch clever, unique story ideas and turn them into must-read content for a discerning audience.
• Producing quality content: Craft compelling, accurate, and balanced copy- from fast-paced digital reports to in-depth analysis and commentary- to the highest standards.
• Engaging a digital audience: File clean, engaging copy for multiple digital platforms, meeting tight deadlines and helping to drive our digital subscription growth.
• Collaborating for impact: Work closely and effectively with fellow reporters, editors, and photographers within the bureau and the newsroom.

What You'll Bring

The ideal candidate is a natural news-breaker with a deep curiosity about how power operates in Australia- both in the halls of Parliament and within the public service.

We are looking for a journalist who can demonstrate:

• A proven track record: You have a portfolio of breaking significant stories in federal, state, or territory politics, or dedicated public sector reporting.
• Institutional knowledge: A deep understanding of the workings of government, parliamentary processes, and the vital role of the public service.
• Exceptional writing skills: A flair for crafting compelling narratives from complex information and presenting them with clarity and precision.
• Digital proficiency: Proven skills in filing for fast-paced digital news environments.
• Specialist knowledge: Experience in researching and reporting on key policy areas such as economics, defence, or public administration would be strong advantage.
• Data skills: The ability to find, interpret, and present data to strengthen your reporting will be highly regarded.

Why Join Us?

Your journalism will serve the influential readership of The Canberra Times and reach communities across the country via Australia's largest independent news publisher. You will play a vital role in holding our politicians and public institutions to account. We are the trusted voice in the regions we serve. If you are ready to make your mark on national affairs, we want to hear from you.

We advocate Diversity and Inclusion

ACM embraces all aspects of diversity and inclusion and are committed to creating a workplace which reflects the incredibly diverse customers, audiences and communities we serve. Candidates from all backgrounds will receive equal consideration for the opportunity they apply for

Disability Accommodation

For individuals who need assistance at any point in the application and interview process please contact the ACM Jobs team via email -