The office of ​Alison Penfold MP​ is seeking applications for a ​full-time ongoing Senior Electorate Officer & Media Adviser, based in the Lyne Electorate Office in Wauchope NSW, 2446.

Position Overview

This position is the most senior of all EO staff and requires an individual with leadership and strategic capabilities in campaigns, media and policy.

The person will support the Parliamentarian with office governance, strategic political, policy & campaign advice as well as day-to-day print, radio and TV management.

The Parliamentarian is seeking an enthusiastic individual with strong leadership and campaign skills to join the team in this senior role.

This job comes with the wonderful privilege of living on the magnificent mid-north coast of NSW with beaches, farming country and mountains on your doorstep.

The key duties of the position include but are not limited to:

• Day-to-day responsibility of the Lyne Electorate Office and supervision of staff.

• Work closely with the MP to support the execution of the office strategic and operational plan.

• Provide political, policy, media and campaign advice.

• Office & Staff Budget management.

• Work closely with the MP on planning and preparations for the 2028 federal election.

• Develop and implement an electorate wide multi-platform communication plan.

• Proactively identify and pursue media opportunities and maintain strong working relationships with media.

• First point of contact for all media enquiries.

• Draft media releases and electorate communications material, including newsletters.

• Organise and implement media opportunities and local issue campaigns.

• Prepare for media interviews, press conferences and other events.

• Research, write and pitch opinion pieces and other stories.

• Travel around the electorate will be required. Travel to Canberra may be required.

• Other duties as directed.

The ideal applicant should possess the following skills, qualifications, and experience

• Qualifications in communications and/or journalism with relevant experience is required.

• Previous ministerial or electorate office experience is highly regarded.

• Excellent written and oral communications skills.

• Knowledge of Australian politics and Australia’s system of government and desire to promote the community and policy activities of an Australian Parliamentarian.

• Outstanding organisational and time management skills with the ability to effectively manage multiple responsibilities and meet competing deadlines.

• The ability to lead a team, support staff professional growth and preparedness to roll up the sleeves and pitch in.

• Flexibility and preparedness to work overtime and on weekends when required.

• High levels of professionalism, confidentiality, and discretion.

Employment conditions:

The position is offered under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 and conditions are outlined in the Commonwealth Members of Parliament Staff Enterprise Agreement 2024-27 which include:

• A commencing salary between $88,160 and $99,305 will be negotiated depending on experience and relevant skills.

• An additional Electorate Support Allowance of between $11,610 and $27,865 may be considered in recognition of, and as compensation for, reasonable additional hours of work and any travel requirements.

• Please note the above salary and allowance are subject to a 3.4% pay increase on 5 August 2026.

• Relocation assistance, studies assistance and paid study leave may also be available (subject to eligibility requirements).

• An employer superannuation contribution of 15.4% will be payable.

Applicants should note the following:

• An initial probationary period of three months may apply and may be subject to extension.

• The successful applicant may be required to undergo a National Police History Check.

• Staff may be subject to automatic cessation triggers in accordance with Section 14 of the MOP(S) Act.

• The successful applicant will be required to comply with their obligations under the Behaviour Codes and Standards.

How to apply  

Please submit a CV with the names of two referees and a one-page (maximum) cover letter outlining your interest in this position, and demonstrating your skills, capabilities, knowledge and experience. Please ensure that your written capability is demonstrated as part of your response, refraining from the use of AI to embellish your cover letter. 

Applications should be submitted to alison.penfold.mp@aph.gov.au

Applications close on Wednesday 5 November 2025

For further information please contact Alison Penfold by email to request a confidential phone discussion.