Director, Communications and Information

To obtain a copy of the Vacancy Information Kit for this vacancy, please click on the ‘Apply Online’ button to the left of this advertisement.

Our Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity to shape and deliver the ALRC’s internal and external communications and information management functions, as we develop and engage with broader and diverse audiences. Together with the executive, corporate and legal teams, the Director will be responsible for designing and implementing the ALRC’s internal and external communications strategies, to strengthen and promote the ALRC’s reputation as a centre of excellence for law reform.

The Director will be part of the leadership team and play a critical role in:

• Effectively communicating the work of the ALRC to stakeholders, government and the broader community, including through engaging with mainstream and emerging media, the ALRC website, social media channels, ALRC events, and the development of inquiry-specific communications products.
• Overseeing the delivery of key publications, including inquiry publications such as Discussion Papers and Final Reports, in addition to the ALRC’s Annual Reports and Corporate Plans.
• Leading the delivery of strategic internal communications that foster a connected, informed and engaged workforce. The role will be responsible for the strategic management of the ALRC’s internal communications platforms, including SharePoint.
• Strengthening and overseeing the ALRC’s information governance, knowledge management and compliance frameworks.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for people who are curious, collaborative and committed to excellence. Our people bring diverse perspectives and experiences, apply thoughtful and creative approaches to complex legal and policy issues, and contribute to an inclusive and respectful workplace. They demonstrate sound judgement, embrace continuous improvement, and work collaboratively to deliver high-quality outcomes that support the ALRC's law reform objectives.

 Key responsibilities of the role:

• Provide high-level strategic advice to the Executive on communications, stakeholder engagement, media engagement, reputational risk and emerging issues.
• Lead the development and delivery of an integrated communications and engagement strategy that enhances the ALRC’s profile, supports organisational objectives, and effectively engages internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead the ALRC’s communication and engagement functions, including media relations, digital communications, publications, events, consultations, stakeholder engagement activities and public affairs initiatives.
• Develop, deliver and manage strategic internal communications channels that foster a connected, informed and engaged workforce, support organisational compliance and priorities, and strengthen a positive workplace culture through effective communication, information sharing and data management.
• Oversee the ALRC’s digital presence, publications and communication channels, using audience insights and evaluation to continuously improve communication effectiveness and organisational impact.
• Work collaboratively across the organisation to translate complex legal and policy concepts into clear, accessible and engaging communication products for diverse audiences.

Selection Criteria:

1. Demonstrated experience developing and leading integrated communication and engagement strategies that support and strengthen organisational objectives and reputation, and effectively engage diverse internal and external audiences;
2. Proven ability to provide high-level strategic advice to senior executives on communications, stakeholder engagement, media management, reputational risk and emerging issues, exercising sound judgment in complex and sensitive environments;
3. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain productive relationships with government, media, legal, academic, community and other key stakeholders, and to lead engagement initiatives that achieve organisational outcomes;
4. Extensive experience leading media relations, digital communications, publications, events and public affairs activities, including the use of data, audience insights and evaluation to improve communication effectiveness and impact;
5. Experience developing and delivering strategic internal communications using Microsoft platforms, information governance and internal information management practises that support organisational priorities, compliance and employee engagement;
6. Exceptional written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex legal, policy or technical concepts into clear accessible and engaging content for diverse audiences; and
7. Demonstrated ability to lead high-performing teams, manage competing priorities and resources, foster innovation and collaboration, and deliver high-quality outcomes in a dynamic environment.

The range and nature of work within the ALRC requires a workforce that reflects our diverse society, and the department provides a number of support mechanisms for employees.

As an ALRC employee, you will:

• be part of an inclusive and diverse work environment;
• receive a generous starting salary and work conditions;
• benefit from supportive learning and development.

Are you eligible to apply?

To be considered for employment at the ALRC applicants must be eligible to work in Australia. 

Successful applicants engaged into the APS will be subject to a probation period. 

How to apply

Applications are to be emailed to **@alrc.gov.au. For further information about the role please contact:

Name: Maria Mckerrow, Manager People and Culture

Email: **@alrc.gov.au

Application close at 11:30pm AEST on 31 August 2026.

If you have any questions regarding the recruitment process or require any reasonable adjustments, please email **@alrc.gov.au.

The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) is an independent Australian Government agency that provides recommendations for law reform to Government on issues referred to it by the Attorney General of Australia.