- Lead communications, media, engagement and advocacy to position Council as a trusted and influential voice locally, statewide and nationally.
- Drive strategies and campaigns that enhance transparency, reputation, digital presence and community connection.
- Provide expert advice to the Chief of Staff, CEO, Executive and Councillors to support effective decision-making and engagement
Mornington Peninsula Shire is Victoria's premier destination municipality, celebrated for its vibrant townships, thriving agriculture, world-class landscapes, iconic tourist regions, and internationally significant conservation areas within a vital Green Wedge. As the state’s fifth largest Local Government Area, the Shire delivers more than 100 essential services to a diverse and growing community of 170,000 residents. These services encompass infrastructure, community wellbeing, environmental stewardship, and cultural initiatives, all supporting prosperity and liveability across the region. Home to one of Australia’s most dynamic tourism industries, the Mornington Peninsula attracts over 8 million visitors each year, generates $9.5 billion in economic output and sustains more than 62,000 jobs, underpinning its role as a cornerstone of Victoria’s visitor economy.
To ensure it continues to meet the needs of its community and capitalise on future opportunities, the Shire is embarking on a new organisational structure designed to modernise service delivery, strengthen leadership, and enhance collaboration across all functions. This is an exciting period of change and renewal, and the Council is seeking candidates who thrive in dynamic environments, bring fresh ideas, and are committed to driving transformation. Successful leaders will embrace innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement, ensuring the organisation remains responsive, future-focused and equipped to deliver outstanding outcomes for its residents, businesses, and visitors.
Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Head of Strategic Communications & Advocacy will lead Council’s communications, media, engagement and advocacy functions. You will be responsible for positioning Council as a trusted, respected and influential voice at local, state and national levels, while also building strong connections with the community. With oversight of internal and external communications, you will drive strategies that enhance transparency, reputation and reach, delivering high-quality campaigns, digital and media initiatives, and strategic advocacy aligned to Council priorities. A critical part of this role will be providing timely, expert advice to the Chief of Staff, CEO, Executive and Councillors to support effective decision making and engagement.
The successful candidate will be a contemporary communications and advocacy leader with demonstrated senior experience in public affairs, stakeholder engagement or related fields, ideally in the public or broader community sector. Politically astute and highly collaborative, you will bring excellent stakeholder management skills, sound judgement and the ability to influence across complex environments. With outstanding written and verbal communication skills, you will inspire your team to deliver innovative and customer-focused solutions that strengthen trust, enhance Council’s reputation, and amplify the voice of the Mornington Peninsula Shire.
To view more information about the opportunities at Mornington Peninsula Council please view the microsite linked here: https://www.davidsonwp.com/mornington-peninsula-shire.
To apply, please click ‘apply now’ and upload your CV and Cover Letter. For any questions not outlined in the PD and for a confidential discussion, please contact Alannah O’Carroll on 0426691205.
Davidson acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work and live. We are also committed to equal opportunity and strive to promote diversity, inclusion, belonging, flexibility, and accessibility in all that we do.
Should you require assistance in your interactions with us or through a recruitment process, please let us know so we can provide adjustments for you.
