Head of Media & Communications – Diabetes Australia

Overview

Diabetes Australia, the leading national body dedicated to supporting individuals living with or at risk of diabetes, is seeking a Head of Media & Communications. This pivotal role involves steering the national media and communications strategy and reinforcing Diabetes Australia’s position as a foremost and trustworthy authority on diabetes care, prevention, research, and policy.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing and executing an integrated media and communications plan aligned with Diabetes Australia’s strategic priorities and advocacy goals.
• Enhancing the profile of Diabetes Australia and its key figures, including the Group CEO and executive leadership.
• Identifying critical topics for the organisation to take a definitive stance on and crafting communication initiatives to guide national conversations.
• Leading cross-platform public relations campaigns across traditional and social media to highlight advocacy efforts, diabetes care advancements, research breakthroughs, and patient narratives.
• Generating impactful media coverage that solidifies Diabetes Australia as an authoritative and reliable voice on diabetes.
• Producing high-quality communication materials such as media statements, press releases, opinion articles, speeches, presentations, and thought leadership content.
• Providing expert media advice, messaging strategies, and preparation support to senior executives for interviews, public speaking, panels, and media events.
• Building and maintaining strong connections with media representatives and key influencers.
• Monitoring media landscapes and emerging trends, offering insights, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations to facilitate informed decision-making.
• Developing and implementing crisis communication strategies to protect the organisation’s reputation.
• Facilitating engagement with national partners, peak bodies, and stakeholders to advance partnership, advocacy, and influence objectives.
• Leading and mentoring a small team, cultivating a culture of high performance, inclusivity, and collaboration.

Experience and Qualifications

• Extensive senior experience in communications, media relations, corporate or public affairs, preferably within the health sector.
• Proven success in raising organisational visibility and impact through comprehensive communication strategies.
• Expertise in shaping public narratives, organizational positioning, and navigating complex stakeholder environments.
• Strong media relations skills, including direct engagement with journalists and understanding of media story development.
• Credible adviser to senior leadership with confident strategic communications judgment.
• Exceptional written communication skills with an ability to simplify complex health policies into clear, engaging messaging.
• Advanced stakeholder management, relationship-building, and influencing capabilities.
• Leadership experience managing teams and priorities in multifaceted operational settings.
• A sincere dedication to Diabetes Australia’s values and mission.

Additional Information

This position is based in Brisbane and operates on a full-time basis. Diabetes Australia supports a hybrid work arrangement, with 2-3 days expected in the office weekly. Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or hold a valid visa permitting the role’s requirements.

Applications should include a cover letter outlining suitability and interest. The closing date to apply is Monday 3 August 2026.