ADN New Position

Classification PAO 2

Local title Public Affairs Officer (Editor)

Division Corporate Development

Branch Parliamentary and Corporate Affairs

Section Media and Communication Section

Supervisor Director, Media and Communication Section (PN 2818)

Job description

The occupant of this position is required to edit and coordinate the production of high quality publications and other information materials, including the Department’s staff newsletter @dva.

The occupant of this position will be required to liaise with staff at all levels within the Department, Repatriation Commission and the Minister’s office, as well as representatives of a range of external bodies including ex-service organisations and the media.

Duties

Under general guidance, undertake a range of public affairs tasks including any or all of the following:

• Research, write, edit and format material for a range of communication products, especially publications such as the Department’s staff newsletter @dva, and its newspaper for the veteran community, Vetaffairs; commission photographs and liaise with graphic designers and printers.

• Assist with the development and implementation of communication/media strategies and help to promote departmental programs and activities.

Respond effectively to requests for information from departmental staff, the media, members of the veteran community, representatives of ex-service organisations and other agencies.

• Establish and maintain links with departmental divisions, State administrations, ex service organisations and other sources of information.

• Apply the principles of Workplace Diversity, OH&S and participative work practices.

Selection criteria:

• Demonstrated experience and/or qualifications in journalism or public affairs, including experience in publications production.

• Excellent writing and editing skills, including:

• the ability to research, write and edit a range of information materials for publication including articles, speeches, media releases and other documentation as required;

• the ability to analyse and interpret complex information from a variety of sources and present it in various formats and styles for different target audiences;

• the ability to ensure accuracy, thoroughness and quality of work.

• Proven skills in publications production, including:

• a thorough understanding of procedures to achieve high quality products within a set budget;

• ability to work to deadlines and production schedules;

• demonstrated ability to exercise good judgement in the selection and presentation of material for publication;

• Lay-out skills an advantage, together with a working knowledge of a design software package such as Quark, Pagemaker and/or In Design.

• Well-developed liaison skills, including the ability to:

• work as part of a professional team and to develop productive working relationships with departmental officers at all levels;

• liaise with, and respond to requests for information and/or professional advice from, a wide range of individuals and organisations;

• liaise and negotiate effectively in complex or difficult situations;

• represent the Department in a variety of circumstances.

• Well-developed management and organisational skills including:

• the ability to assign and manage workflows and standards

• the ability to accept responsibility associated with decision making and administration

• initiative, flexibility, resourcefulness and a willingness to promote continuous improvement.

• Detailed knowledge of DVA’s functions and operations and a good understanding of the political, social and organisational environment in which the Department operates.

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of Workplace Diversity, OH&S and participative work practices, and an ability to apply them in the work practices.