Lead, Public Relations

Use your public relations expertise to help drive better health outcomes for more VictoriansHelp bring the evidence and impact of health promotion to more people across VictoriaA hybrid working model in an environment where differences are valued, encouraged and supported
When considering applying, please note that the Victorian Government has accepted the recommendation to integrate VicHealth into the Department of Health. Our important prevention work continues, including the delivery of programs, partnerships and funding rounds, as we await further information. Please visit our website for the information we currently have available.
VicHealth welcomes and values applications from candidates who are of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, candidates with culturally diverse backgrounds, candidates with disability and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.
VicHealth is the world’s first health promotion foundation that supports long-term, evidence-based health promotion practice, partnerships and leadership. We are a global leader in health promotion, as a Collaborating Centre with the World Health Organization.
About the role:Located within the Social Marketing and Communications group, the position of Lead, Public Relations Lead reports to the Manager, External Communications Manager in the External Communications team.
This role leads VicHealth's public relations efforts by driving media strategy, strengthening the organisation’s reputation, fostering key media and stakeholder relationships, ensuring impactful communication of VicHealth's health promotion messages, and supporting leaders to communicate effectively with the public and media.
Key responsibilities: Leading the development, implementation and evaluation of media and public relations strategiesProviding sound media advice and coaching/mentoring Building and maintaining trusted relationships between VicHealth and journalists and other media professionalsWriting, editing and pitching media/communications materials Working closely with the CEO Office to plan and coordinate CEO media and thought leadership opportunities
About you:You are an experienced PR professional with excellent writing skills and a strong understanding of the media cycle. You know how to spot a compelling angle, turn complex issues into clear and engaging stories, and build interest with journalists and other audiences.
You are a confident communicator and natural relationship builder, with the ability to negotiate, influence and persuade. You build trust easily and know how to nurture and develop strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders, including government departments and agencies.
You are proactive, curious and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, with the judgement to identify opportunities, respond to emerging issues and make the most of the media moment.
Qualifications and experience: Tertiary qualifications in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or Public Relations or similar areaAt least 5 years’ experience working in similar rolesDemonstrated experience developing and delivering proactive PR and media strategiesStrong track record of securing quality media coverage across print, broadcast, digital and/or online media Excellent media writing skills, including media releases, pitches, talking points, statements, opinion pieces and spokesperson briefsExperience managing reactive media issues and reputational risk, including working under pressure and to tight deadlinesExperience in data analysis, monitoring and reportingExperience working within the communications, public health, community or government sectors is preferred
Closing Date: Monday 31 August 2026
Group: Social Marketing and Communications
Tenure: Full-time, fixed-term (until 27 August 2027)
Classification: VicHealth Grade D
Remuneration: Starting at $97,891 per annum (plus superannuation and other benefits). The role will participate in a shared out-of-hours media on-call roster and will receive an on-call allowance for rostered periods and additional leave.
Perks and benefits:Hybrid-work modelProfessional development opportunities Employee Wellbeing & OHS Committee who deliver events and initiativesBring your dog to work day every Thursday and FridayEmployee Assistance Program Fresh fruit, breakfast and coffee machine Monthly birthday celebrations How to apply:  Applications must include a cover letter and a current resume. The cover letter must include why you feel you are suitable for the position, and also address the Key Selection Criteria from the position description.
Please refer to the position description attached to view the qualifications and experience associated with the position.
You may be required to undertake a Working with Children check.
For further information about the role, please contact Brea Pape, P&C Business Partner, at recruitment@vichealth.vic.gov.au or 03 9667 1341.
VicHealth acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government