At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of strategic communication plans and provide expert advice to stakeholders.
- Company: Join the VCAA, a key player in shaping education in Victoria.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work options, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education through innovative communication strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic communications and stakeholder engagement is essential.
The predicted salary is between 116413 - 140849 $ per year.
An exciting opportunity exists to join the Corporate Services Division, VCAA in the Strategic Communications and Content Unit for a fixed term full-time position.
About the Department
The VCAA is a statutory body responsible to the Victorian Minister for Education, serving both government and non-government schools. In this context, the VCAA is responsible for developing high-quality curriculum and assessment products and services. The VCAA develops strong relationships with the government, Independent and Catholic school sector, other national and interstate curriculum authorities, academics in the field, teacher/subject associations and, most importantly, with Victorian educators.
All VCAA employees are expected to perform their duties in accordance with relevant legislation, governance requirements, policies and procedures, safety obligations, the Code of Conduct for Victorian public sector employees, and the Victorian Public Sector Values. All roles are expected to work collaboratively across teams and functions, build productive relationships, and contribute to shared organisational outcomes.
About the Division
Corporate Services Division provides enabling services to support the operation of the VCAA with communications, engagement, data and analytics, legal policy, finance, human resources, technology infrastructure and applications. Corporate Services is focussed on delivering high quality, innovative services and operating as a strong collaborative partner to the Curriculum and Assessment Divisions to support delivery of the VCAA's vision and mission.
The Strategic Communications and Content Unit's multidisciplinary team manages communications strategy, channels and media using a business partnering model to provide support to program areas through high quality, authoritative and contemporary strategic communications advice and materials.
About the Role
The Senior Communications Business Partner leads the development and implementation of integrated communication strategies and tactical plans to support key projects and initiatives. The incumbent is responsible for providing quality advice and support to internal stakeholders regarding effective communications; including content, timing, presentation, speech, and choosing the right medium for the message.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with senior leaders and business areas to provide high quality, authoritative and contemporary strategic communications advice that supports organisational priorities, initiatives and change initiatives.
- Develop and deliver best practice communication strategies and plans that align with business objectives, stakeholder needs and organisational priorities.
- Build trusted relationships across the organisation to identify communication opportunities, manage issues and support effective stakeholder engagement.
- Lead the development of clear, high-quality communication materials, including key messages, briefs, content and stakeholder communications.
- Coordinate communication activity across teams and channels, providing advice on risks, issues and opportunities to support consistent and effective delivery.
- Work effectively under pressure, manage competing priorities and adapt to changing business needs while maintaining the quality and timeliness of output.
This role may require work outside standard business hours during peak operational periods to meet business requirements.
Attributes
The ideal candidate will have strong project management skills and use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to provide innovative solutions to complex issues. They will be able to build and develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders and work collaboratively within a team. They will also have excellent written communication skills and be able to work proactively and independently.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience
- A relevant tertiary qualification in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or a related discipline is desirable.
- Demonstrated experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and business partnering in a government, public sector or similarly complex organisation is mandatory.
- Demonstrated experience providing communications advice to senior leaders and partnering with business areas to deliver communication strategies, plans and materials across a range of channels is mandatory.
The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page.
Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person. Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at www.education.vic.gov.au.
Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Applications close 11:59pm on 29-Oct-2026.
Senior Communications Business Partner in Melbourne employer: Department of Education
The Department of Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement. As an Investigator in the Conduct and Integrity Division, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts the education sector while benefiting from professional development and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Located in Victoria, this role provides a unique chance to contribute to a high-performing team dedicated to upholding the highest standards of conduct and service delivery.
