Title: Media Lead
About us
We create thriving places and connected communities. We bring together transport, planning, land use, precinct and policy functions in a single department to deliver the best outcomes for Victorians.
Together with our portfolio agencies, we are responsible for planning, building, operating and +maintaining Victoria’s transport, planning and land services for use by all.
We foster a safe, inclusive and constructive place to work.
Communications and Customer Experience leads best-practice communications and engagement to connect DTP with our people, customers, industry partners and communities. We work collaboratively to enrich our customers’ experience of our services, provide the information people need to get around safely and smoothly, and engage with Victorians about how they live and move, now and into the future.
About the role
*This is a Fixed Term Position until 30th June 2027*
Key Selection Criteria
The role requires demonstrated experience in media issues management and the ability to develop proactive communication strategies that promote organisational objectives across multiple channels. Strong written and verbal communication skills, creativity, and the ability to convey information clearly under public scrutiny are essential. The position also demands excellent interpersonal and time management skills, with the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively while supporting and guiding team members.
To access the Position Description, please click here.
Position accountabilities
The Department of Transport and Planning is seeking a skilled and dynamic Media Lead to join our Communications team. This role plays a key part in shaping how the Department engages with the media and the community on critical projects and initiatives that impact Victoria’s transport and planning landscape.
As the Media Lead, you will apply strong research and communication skills to craft clear, accurate and engaging media materials, including media releases, responses, event briefs and Q&As — often under tight deadlines. You will manage proactive and reactive media activities, providing strategic advice to senior leaders and ensuring key messages are effectively communicated across a range of channels.
This position requires sound judgement, creativity and the ability to identify emerging media opportunities and risks. You will build trusted relationships with journalists and media outlets, negotiate coverage to ensure accuracy, and coordinate media events that highlight the Department’s work. Experience managing social media content to complement traditional campaigns is also essential.
The role is ideal for a communications professional with proven experience in media relations, issues management and strategic storytelling. You will thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrate strong interpersonal and influencing skills, and have the flexibility to contribute to a 24-hour on-call media roster.
Join us in helping shape Victoria’s transport and planning future through effective, strategic and impactful communication.
Qualifications and experience
Mandatory
An appropriate tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in journalism, public relations, communications or a similar discipline.
Culture Value
We welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds representing the community that we serve, including veterans, parents, carers, First Peoples, people with disability, multicultural, multifaith and LGBTIQA+ individuals.
As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and high-performance culture. Through shared actions and behaviours aligned with our strategy and direction, we empower our people to thrive and meaningfully contribute to the department’s goals.
What we offer
Working at the Department of Transport and Planning provides people with the opportunity to contribute to creating thriving places and connected communities for all Victorians.
For further details please refer to Careers at the Department of Transport and Planning.
Pre-employment checks and employment conditions
All new appointments to the department will be subject to a National Criminal Records Check, Misconduct Screening, and a Qualification Check where there is a requirement for a mandatory qualification. Information provided to the Department of Transport and Planning will be treated in the strictest confidence consistent with the requirements of the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014.
Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position.
Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.
Non-VPS applicants will be subject to a probation period of six months.
How to apply
Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application.
If you encounter any issues, refer to our Quick Reference Guide for step-by-step instructions.
Applications close at 11.59pm on Wednesday, 19th November 2025.
Please include both your resume and a cover letter. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions.
For further information about the role, please contact Louisa Cheatley - Media Manager via louisa.cheatley@transport.vic.gov.au.
Important Information:
• If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us by phone or email. We're here to support you.
